The key to a good patient/dentist relationship is finding a dentist you can trust with your oral health. So if you have moved and are looking for a new dentist, don't have one currently or just want to try out a different dentist, here are a few ways to find one:
- Ask your friends, family or co-workers. Chances are one of them has a great dentist they can recommend.
- Ask your doctor or a pharmacist. Members of the medical community often know one another.
- If you are moving, ask your current dentist for a recommendation. They might know somebody in the town or area you are moving to.
- Visit the , opens new window.
After you have a few recommendations for a new dentist, you may want to call or visit more than one of them. Again, your relationship with your dentist is very important, so make sure you are a good fit for one another.
Here are a few more things to consider when choosing a dentist:2
- Do they take your dental insurance?
- Do they have office hours that fit your schedule?
- Do they have an office close to your home or workplace?
- How do they approach preventive dentistry?
- How do they handle after-hour emergencies?
- How much do common procedures usually cost?
- Do they have a missed-appointments policy?
It's OK to ask for estimates on some common procedures such as full-mouth X-rays, an oral exam, cleaning and filling a cavity.3
If you decide to visit a dentist's office, make sure you take note of the following:
- Is their office clean, neat and orderly?
- Does their equipment appear to be clean and up to date?
- Did the dental staff answer your questions in a kind and courteous manner?
- Do the dentist and staff wear gloves and protective gear?
Just like any other doctor, you owe it to yourself to spend a little time getting to know your new dentist. Choosing one may seem like an easy task. But remember, dental care is a very personal service and you want this relationship to last for years and years.4
