Choosing the right dentist is vital to making sure that you choose the best help to manage your oral health and start taking care of your children’s teeth the right way. The sooner you get your family into good oral health habits, the more likely they are to stick with them. Here are some tips for how to choose the dentist that best suits the family’s needs:
They have the right qualifications
Look at the website of any family dental practice you find to see that they have qualifications. You’ll want to know where your dentist earned their doctorate, as well as what experience they have. Knowing what associations they might be a part of helps, too. Bodies like the ADA Dental Association exist to highlight that their members fit a certain standard of professionalism and care in their practice. Of course, this is not the only association that’s a mark of quality, so take the time to research any that back your dentist of choice.
They fit with your needs
If you need specific treatments, such as orthodontics, periodontics, or cosmetic treatments, make sure your dentist can do it. Providers like Sage Dental list all of their practice areas, helping you quickly see whether or not they’re able to give you the care you’re looking for. Your options may also be limited if you have to go in-network with your dental care. So, you have to take the time to see which dental insurance providers your chosen dentist is in network with.
They make it easier for your kids
If you’re choosing a family dentist, you’ll want them to take care of your children’s needs. To that end, you should take the time to see how they handle child patients. Do they let you visit their premises in advance to help children get used to making visits? Do they have play areas to keep children busy until they’re ready for their appointment? Convincing a child to go to the dentist can be hard enough, but the right dentist can make it easier.
Do they have the right personal touch?
It’s vitally important that you’re comfortable with your dentist. If you feel uncomfortable or that your needs aren’t being met, whether it’s on the phone, visiting the office for the first time, or in the dentist’s chair, then it can undermine your confidence in their ability to take care of you. Don’t be afraid to go with your gut if you feel they’re not treating you right.
Recap: Choosing The Right Dentist For Your Family
Finding the right dentist as soon as you can helps with taking care of your family’s teeth. The tips above can make that a lot easier.
Do you have any to add? Leave a comment and let us know.
This is excellent information, and much needed to make sure the right dentist is found. I think having a good first experience of going to the dentist is vital for kids to make sure they don’t develop any fears about going—and also learn how to care for their teeth. I had a very early, bad experience with a dentist and the fear about going is still with me over 40 years later! Great post.