How to Choose a Dentist

How to Choose a Dentist

When you need to choose a dentist, sometimes it can be overwhelming. So how does one go about choosing a dentist? Covering your eyes and randomly pointing to the Google search results doesn’t cut it. Asking a friend is a good way to choose a dentist; after all, you know your friend and trust his/her experience, right?

But what if you don’t know anyone who knows a good dentist? What if you need specialized services, like dentures or implants? What if you are looking for a dentist in a specific location, or the friendliest guy in town?

There are a lot of dentists out there, some good, some not so good. Here is a checklist you may want to consider when you are trying to choose a dentist.

1. What type of result are you looking for?

There are, in general, three levels of care you can expect. The first level is your budget level. Nothing wrong with that, if that is what you want. Most dentists at this level do adequate work, but not always. It’s like going to the Wal-Mart. High volume, inexpensive goods that may last a while and get you through for now, but don’t expect much more out of it.

Level two is more of a mainstream level. If you choose a dentist at this level, you can expect decent dental work and most likely a pretty good experience. You can compare it to shopping at a nicer department store, such as JC Penney.

Level three is all about quality and longevity. If you wish to choose a dentist in this level you can expect superior dental work and a dentist who has lots of experience and training. Compare this to Macy’s or Nordstrom. High quality with a high level of competence and excellence is the norm for a level three dentist.

2. What type of dental work do you need?

Do you need a simple cleaning? What about crowns? Are you looking into dental implants? Is it finally time for dentures? A good dentist will examine your entire mouth and give you a treatment plan suitable for your personal oral health situation. Look for a dentist who caters to your dental needs. If you want to choose a dentist who specalizes in a certain area of expertise, usually you can find that information plainly stated on their web site. If not, ask when you call the office. You don’t want just anyone doing your implants.

3. Check online reviews.

Online reviews are a good way to help you choose a dentist because you can get a feel for what a dentist’s patients are saying about the office. It’s helpful if you post your own online review, too, after your appointment. There are many places around the web where you can read and post reviews.

4. Does the dental office offer a free consultation?

To choose a dentist, a doctor, or a hairdresser is a little bit like marriage. It’s important to find someone you trust and who will give you great service and quality. If the dentist offers a free consultation they are extending a hand to you. This gives you an opportunity to visit the office, meet the dentist and staff, and then decide if this relationship is a good match with no obligation.

5. Does the office give a treatment plan in writing?

A written treatment plan is extremely helpful when you choose a dentist. When your oral health care plan is there on paper, complete with financial information, then you can make a better decision. Be sure to ask the staff member who answers the phone before you make your appointment. There’s nothing worse than expecting clear communication and coming out of the dental office more confused than ever. Get your plan in writing.