How do you find a dentist?

By Dr. Angeletti, published in Our Town, April, 2007

It is important for you to have a dentist who takes a sincere interest in your general health, as well as your oral health. For successful dental care, it makes sense to select and become acquainted with a dentist before a dental emergency arises. 

Finding the dentist who’s right for you can be a simple as asking for a recommendation from a friend, neighbor or co-worker.  You can ask your local dental society or your medical doctor.  It’s usually best to begin with a general dentist.  If you require extensive or special treatment, the dentist may refer you to a specialist. 

When you think you have found a possibility, call the office and see what they require for a first visit of a new patient.  Find out how long the practice has been in operation.  A good office will typically have you in for a consultation first to determine your needs.  This visit may include a thorough examination, x-rays and oral tissue evaluation.  If your needs are complex, the dentist may ask you to come back for a second visit to explain the treatment required, the fees and any available financial arrangements.  Your dentist should be able to prioritize a treatment schedule to help you distinguish problems needing immediate attention from those that are less urgent. Often, treatment can be phased in over time. Be sure you understand the consequences of delaying treatment. 

 

Indications of a good dental office:

–         You feel comfortable in the office.  The general appearance of the office is clean, neat and professional.

–         The receptionist is courteous on the phone and at the front desk.

–         Patients are seen promptly.

–         The dentist spends time listening to you, understanding your medical background and asking about your general dental health.  The dentist is prevention-oriented. 

–         The dentist and staff treat you kindly and courteously and give you personal attention.

–         Fees are discussed before treatment and financial arrangements are made prior to treatment.

Indications of a questionable dental office:

–         Flamboyant advertising, which may signify an emphasis on mass production rather than quality care.

–         Routine use of intravenous sedation is another bad sign because it means that patients are exposed to unnecessary risks. The vast majority of patients do not need it for routine dentistry.

–         Sell vitamins or other dietary supplements

–         Automatically recommend replacement of amalgam fillings or removal of teeth that have root canals

–         "Specialize" in treating headaches, backaches, myofascial pain, or TMJ problems

–         Go beyond dentistry by diagnosing diseases other than those of the mouth, gums, teeth, and associated tissues.

 

You may want to call or visit more than one dentist before making your decision. Dental care is a very personalized service that requires a good relationship between the dentist and the patient.