Going to the dentist at least twice a year is essential to having
strong and healthy teeth. However, this simple chore is somewhat
elusive to many people, simply because they don’t like or enjoy going
to the dentist. However, most people don’t like going to the dentist
only because they probably haven’t found the right dentist for them.
They haven’t found the dentist that makes them feel comfortable before
and after any procedure. They haven’t found the dentist that explains
everything in a clear and precise manner so no surprises come up.
Having the right dentist for you is necessary in order to have a
pleasant experience during a dental visit.
Finding the right dentist for you, one that fits all of your needs
such as availability, right personality, and proper skill set, can be
challenging if you don’t know where to start or if you don’t have the
right tools. For someone who has never had to choose a dentist, the
task can even be a bit overwhelming. However, there are some basic
simple steps that you can take in order to find the right dentist for
you.
First, you should rely on your circle of trust and ask the people
closest to you. This includes trusted family members, trusted friends,
and trusted co-workers. This may seem like common sense, but those
people can most likely recommend a dentist with whom you would get
along. You can also ask your doctor to recommend a dentist, as many
times doctors and dentists have referral programs with each other.
Second, for residents here in New Jersey, you should contact the NJ
Dental Association and ask for a referral. For any other state, you
should contact the local state dental association.
Third, again for New Jersey residents, you should call the UMDNJ
dental school clinic and ask for a referral. For any other state, you
could call any local dental school clinic.
Fourth, you should consult the American Dental Association’s member
directory. An ADA approved dentist is definitely one that you should
keep in mind and consider as one of your options.
Finally, if you are movig to a new area, you should ask your current dentist for a referral.
After you’ve gathered a couple of dentists to choose from, you
should also keep in mind some points and questions to ask yourself in
order to better evaluate whether or not the dentist is a right fit for
you.
First, you need to determine how accessible the dentist is. Is his
or her office near your home or job? Is it easy to get the appointment
times that you need?
Second, make sure the office is clean and well kept. The dentist
should wear gloves, a mask, and a gown. You should also ask him or her
about instrument sterilization procedures.
Third, make sure that the dentist has a pleasant and respectful
relationship with his staff. A good dentist will have a good
relationship with his or her staff in order to keep things running
smoothly.
Fourth, consult with the dentist about your dental history. Make a
decision as to whether or not you like the way he or she explains
preventative measures and treatments. Do you feel comfortable sharing
your concerns with the dentist? Are the dentist’s explanations clear?
Fifth, ask about fees, payment, and insurance plans. You should
definitely discuss these before agreeing to any kind of treatment.
Sixth, ask the dentist if he or she provides a way for you to receive emergency, after-hours care in case of a dental emergency.
Lastly, ask how long the dentist has been practicing and what sorts
of continuing education he or she has pursued in order to keep up with
new developments in the field.
Using these basic steps, you can generate a list of many dentists to
choose from in your area. Keeping in mind the latter points and
questions can help you easily narrow down that list so you can find the
perfect dentist for you. You can use these tips to find the right
dentist that will fit your needs so you can have strong and healthy
teeth for a long time.
Article Source:
http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/how-to-find-the-right-dentist-2803420.html
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