Tooth decay is the most prevalent disease in the world. In the United States, it affects nearly 92% of adults.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent it. For one thing, it helps to use fluoride toothpaste; it’ll work with your saliva to protect the enamel from plaque and sugars.
Visiting the dentist is also important. If anything, it’s the only way to remove tartar and plaque from your teeth.
Did you recently move? Looking for some tips on how to find a good dentist? If so, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for everything that you need to know!
- Get a Referral
Ask your friends and family for recommendations. Put the word out there; let them know that you’re looking for a new dentist.
Don’t know anyone in your new neighborhood? You can always search the internet or look in the Yellow Pages. And here’s a tip- make sure to check their online reviews! That’ll help you find the top dentist in your area.
- Check the Logistics
The dental office should be accessible. Also, you want to make sure that their office hours work well with your schedule.
Find out about the services that they offer and their fee range. Generally speaking, you should be able to find this information on their website.
- Give Them a Call
Give the local dentist a call once you’ve narrowed down your choices. Ask if the dentist is accepting new patients.
You can also take the opportunity to learn more about their office. For example, it might not be a good sign if the staff seems irritable or leaves you on hold indefinitely.
- Pay Them a Visit
If you can, try and visit the office in person. Is the waiting room clean and well-organized? Would you feel comfortable with the environment? These are some things that you want to consider while you’re there.
- Talk With the Dentist
Many dentists offer free consultations. Take advantage of that; do a ‘meet and greet’ before booking an appointment.
For example, you can ask them about their approach to treatment. Find out if they offer any emergency services outside of office hours. Also, don’t forget to share your past dental experiences—it’s important that they understand your concerns and answers your questions.
Other Things to Consider
Some dental insurance plans may restrict you to a list of dentists. If that’s the case, check the health insurer’s website—they should have a list of participating providers.
You also want to consider their experience. For example, you can ask how many patients they’ve treated with your specific condition.
Knowing How to Find a Good Dentist
And there you have it—a short guide on how to find a good dentist. Remember, not all dental offices are the same. At the end of the day, you want to choose one that you’ll be comfortable working with.
For more content like this, check out the rest of our lifestyle and health section!