Every person has different dental needs, so it’s essential to find a dentist who listens and works with you on your treatment plan. Whether you want to get your teeth whitened or get a tooth implant finding the right dentist for your needs is essential.
One way to get the most out of your trip to the dentist is by looking for these 12 qualities that indicate a reliable dentist:
- 1. Education and Experience
- 2. The Dentist Explains Their Process
- 3. The Staff Are Polite and Helpful
- 4. The Office Promotes Good Dental Hygiene Habits
- 5. The Dentist Has Patience
- 6. Good Hygiene Practices Are Adhered to in the Office
- 7. The Dentist Has a Successful Track Record
- 8. Insurance Is Taken Care of Professionally
- 9. They Focus on Preventative Care
- 10. They Specialize in Your Problem Area
- 11. The Dentist Has Thorough Patient Forms
- 12. Realistic Treatment Plans That Fit Your Budget
1. Education and Experience
Look for dentists who have completed at least six years of post-graduate dental training in their specialty. Patient testimonials are also a good indicator of the quality of care provided by your dentist, so consider asking friends and family members about their experiences with different dentists.
2. The Dentist Explains Their Process
It’s essential that your dentist is clear in explaining what they will be doing at each appointment and why it’s necessary. If you don’t understand their process, then the treatment may not be the best for you.
3. The Staff Are Polite and Helpful
Everyone who interacts with you should be kind and patient when explaining things to you- from the person on the phone scheduling your appointments to the people who check you in and out of work, too! They all need to go above and beyond to make sure that every visit goes smoothly!
4. The Office Promotes Good Dental Hygiene Habits
You can tell a lot about a dentist by how they run their office. The best dentists have tooth brushing stations near the door, give out toothbrushes and floss for free, and always set appointments at convenient times!
5. The Dentist Has Patience
Good dentists won’t push you to make quick decisions or do things you aren’t comfortable with. If your dentist doesn’t listen to your preferences, then it’s time to find someone new your physical health should come first!
6. Good Hygiene Practices Are Adhered to in the Office
The quality of care and equipment used by a dentist is an excellent indicator of whether you’re going to receive good treatment. A reliable dentist should disinfect any surfaces that may be touched by you or another patient, should use disposable tools for each visit to prevent infections, and should always wear masks, hats, gloves, and other protective gear during procedures.
7. The Dentist Has a Successful Track Record
You can usually tell how effective your dentist is by looking at their reviews online or talking with other patients. Good dentists are well-reviewed, so it’s essential to find someone whose record backs up the claims they make! Talk to friends about their experiences with different dentists if you need some suggestions.
8. Insurance Is Taken Care of Professionally
If your dentist takes your insurance, then it means that they know what they’re doing when it comes to paperwork! Look for someone who makes filing insurance claims quick and easy so that you don’t have to worry about the process when it comes time for your appointment.
9. They Focus on Preventative Care
Your dental health is only as good as the habits you keep up with, so find a dentist who stays dedicated to seeing patients in their early twenties and older every six months! This will help catch problems before they start and ensure that nutritious foods won’t be wasted on ruined teeth.
10. They Specialize in Your Problem Area
There are all sorts of dental problems that people can have, so go to a dentist who specializes in treating your specific issue, so they aren’t left guessing what the problem is! If you need veneers, then visit an orthodontist or periodontist. If it’s wisdom teeth, then find an oral surgeon!
11. The Dentist Has Thorough Patient Forms
Before you go to any dental appointment, make sure that they offer thorough patient forms full of pertinent information about you and your family’s medical history, including dental history. This will help them stay on top of potential problems before they become dangerous! A good dentist should also know what medications you are taking since some can impact how sensitive your teeth are after an injection
12. Realistic Treatment Plans That Fit Your Budget
Good dentists won’t push patients into unnecessary treatment if they can’t afford it. Look for someone who brings up different options early in your treatment plan and doesn’t push things like teeth whitening or veneers unless you express interest first!
Dentist visits can be tricky because you want to find one that will listen to your concerns and work with you on your treatment plan, but that’s easier said than done. The tips we’ve provided should help make the process a little less daunting. When it comes time for your next dentist visit, keep these things in mind!
