Find a Good Dentist

tips from behind the mask to help you avoid bad dentists

You can learn a lot if you know what to look for.

Of course you can't know everything about a dentist after one phone conversation or one appointment.... and you don't need to. But knowing what to ask or be aware of will help.

Here are some things to consider:

Staff - Pay attention to the staff. Are they at ease and comfortable talking to the dentist or nervous and afraid to speak up? Talk to them. Ask how long have they have been there? Do they like it? What do they like about their job? If you ask the right questions and listen closely, it's easy to tell if they sincerely like and trust their employer or if they are just repeating lines to impress you.

Doctor - Is he or she easy to talk to? Does he ask about your goals and priorities? Listen to you? Give you options? Show you examples? Provide references? Talk too much? Or not enough? Give clear explanations? How does the dentist treat the staff? Is he involved in service organizations? Donate time or materials to help the community? Keep up with technology and changes in dentistry? Watch for these signs of a bad dentist.

Atmosphere Sets the tone of the office. A dental office should be clean, friendly, and professional. There is a fine line between friendly and professional. You may be more comfortable with a more formal dental office or a down home friendly feel. Either way, look around and take note of the condition of the office it doesn't have to be fancy, but should be clean and not cluttered.

Modern technology A lot has changed in dentistry and it's important to choose a dentist who keeps up with the latest dental innovations. intra oral cameras, cerac crowns, dental lasers invisalign, and digital x-rays, are some of the latest trends in dentistry. Technology is only one factor so don't cross someone off your list if they don’t have all the latest and greatest and don't assume they are a great dentist just because they have all the new toys.

Are they gentle? Dentists and hygienists can be gentle if they try. Of course, your visit may not be entirely painless but pain should be the exception and not the rule. If you are a little nervous, ask about additional touches for your comfort. Ipods, movies, pillows, and nitrous oxide are some examples.

Price - The most expensive dentist in town is not necessarily the best. Neither is the cheapest. Check prices and see who takes your insurance. Price should be a minor factor in your decision. Mid priced is probably a good choice.

Too many changes in staff If there are always new faces beware. But...don't confuse growth with high turn over. It's a good sign if there are new faces as long as some of the old ones are still there. It shows that people are being well cared for and the practice is growing.

Long waits - every office runs behind at times but you should beware if you are kept waiting for a long time every time. You may not get the best care if your dentist or hygienist is always running late and rushing. Or the other extreme...you are the only client in the office every time you go. A nice steady flow of clients who seem happy and well cared for is a great sign.

Do you need a specialist? Some parents like to take their children to a children's dentist. Most general dentists see children routinely but a dentist for kids is good too.

For all other dental specialties, your first step is to find a good dentist. Your dentist will know who the good specialists are and can direct you.

It takes some time and effort to find a good dentist. But a dentist and staff that you like and trust will make your dental care much more pleasant. I know because I work with two of the best at Old Town Dental.

Find a good dentist here:

• A Dentist in My Area, Dentist Directory
• Read or Write a Dentist Review
• Dentist Review, How to Read Between the Lines

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