When it comes to choosing a new dentist, you have a lot of options. As you embark upon the process of selecting a dentist that can provide the services that you need to maintain a beautiful smile, it’s important to ask the right questions. Gathering the information that you need can prevent you from having to start from scratch down the road.
Even though all dentists are required to be educated and licensed, you must dig deeper to ensure they are the right choice for you. Let’s delve into some of the questions that you should ask when looking for a new dentist.
Are you a provider in my insurance network?
If you have dental insurance, you definitely want to find out if they are a provider in the network of the insurance that you have. Although your priority is finding a good dentist, you also want to look for someone who is covered by your insurance. If you don’t have insurance, then you’ll want to ask about any payment plans they have for patients who are uninsured. Even if you do have dental insurance, it’s normal to have out of pocket costs, so you should ask about payment plans for anything that you have to pay directly.
Do you offer flexible appointment scheduling?
Sometimes people are tempted to skip dental appointments because they don’t fully understand the value of preventative dental care. It’s been proven that poor oral hygiene is linked to different health conditions, which makes regular dental visits a priority. If you have a busy life, it will be important to find a dentist that can accommodate your schedule. A dentist that’s open five days a week might work better than one with a limited schedule. If you plan to schedule your appointments during your lunch break, then you’ll want to make sure you won’t experience long wait times in the afternoon.
Do you participate in continuing education?
It’s wonderful to have a dentist with experience, but it’s also important to have a dentist that’s familiar with modern methods used in dentistry. Treatment options in the dental industry have changed drastically over the past couple of decades, and the dentist that you choose should be familiar with those changes. It could make a big difference in the quality of services that you receive. Dentists stay up to date through continuing education.
What technology is used for x-rays?
Just as methods and treatment options in dentistry have changed, so have the technologies that are used to provide care. For instance, digital x-rays offer far more precise diagnosis than other types of x-ray equipment. Digital x-rays can allow the dentist to identify tooth decay quicker because of the high-resolution images. There’s a good chance that a dentist will identify and resolve issues with decay before they become a bigger problem. This equipment is also safer because it uses less radiation. In addition to x-rays, modern technology in a dental office often results in procedures that are more comfortable.
What is your philosophy on patient service?
Quality patient service is critical when it comes to choosing a dentist because it can make the difference between a pleasant experience and a disastrous experience. You want to find a dentist that listens to feedback from patients and is proactive about addressing issues that arise. Open communication is important, so you want a dentist that values your feedback.
We are committed to providing top-notch patient service, and we are also happy to answer any questions that you have.