If just the thought of visiting the dentist makes your anxiety go through the roof, you’re not alone. But, while nobody enjoys going to the dentist, it is as important as brushing and flossing your teeth. In fact, going for regular dental checkups is an essential part of your oral healthcare routine.
Regularly visiting the dentist will help you catch any problems early and ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.
On the other hand, neglecting your oral health can result in tooth decay, gum disease, and it can even affect your overall health. With this in mind, you want to make sure the dentist you choose is the right one.
Read on for four expert tips on how you can find the best dentist.
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1. Search Online and Read Reviews
If you’re unsure where to start, Google has a business search feature that will make finding dentists in your area easy. In Google, search for relevant keywords and specify your location – for example, “dentist in the Queen Anne Hilltop area.”
When dentists are featured on Google, you can also read online reviews from past and current patients. You should get a good idea of how a dentist operates their practice from these honest, unbiased reviews.
You’ll also gain helpful insight into scheduling, wait times, office staff friendliness, and the practice’s office environment. If you don’t like what you see in the reviews, move on to the next dentist.
2. Ask for Referrals
Aside from searching for dentists near you online, you can also find a good dentist by asking your family, friends, and other healthcare providers for recommendations. If you are part of any neighborhood groups or social media chats, you can also ask for advice there.
Once you have a list of potential dentists, you should move on to the research phase. Check the dentists’ credentials online to make sure they’re qualified, and call each dentist’s office to set up a tour of the practice and meet the dentist.
3. Research Their Credentials
One of the most important factors when choosing a dentist is ensuring they are board-certified. Board certification means the dentist has the skills and training to perform general dentistry. If you have children you will also want to make sure they are seen by a specialist pediatric dentist who is fully trained in the diverse changing needs of your childs dental health.
4. Look for Experience
If you have an oral health condition, finding a dentist with the experience to treat it is essential. If a dentist has years of experience with a specific oral health condition, the higher your chances of receiving successful treatment. Additional training is required for specialized areas of dentistry like endodontics and orthodontics.
When interviewing a potential dentist, ask them how many times they’ve treated patients with your condition and their success rate. If you know you need a specific procedure to treat your condition, ask how many times they have performed it successfully or if they’ve encountered complications.
