When relocating to a new town or city, being without a dentist in general, or looking for a new dentist, there are a few ways to find a new one. We’re here to provide some insight into how to find a great dentist near you that will serve you and your family for years to come.
How To Find Recommendations For A Local Dentist
Your most valuable resources in finding a new dentist are closer than you think! Friends, family, and coworkers often have dentists that they have been using for years. And there’s a significant chance that they trust these dentists as well. Other healthcare professionals, pharmacists, or members of the medical profession often have recommendations too. It often helps to ask your current dentist if you’re moving or if he knows someone in the town you’re relocating to. The dentist where you’re living might also be able to recommend an orthodontist or other oral surgeon if you need one.
Once you have recommendations, call around and talk to the suggested dentists. There’s more to finding a new dentist than ensuring they’re covered by insurance; you need to ensure you can build a good relationship with your new dentist. A few common questions for your potential new dentist are:
- Are they in your insurance plan’s network?
- Does their schedule work with your schedule?
- Are they close to home or work?
- What is their policy on preventative dentistry?
- How do they handle after-hours emergencies? (If they don’t handle emergencies in their office, they might be able to refer you to a dentist that does)
- What are their prices like?
- What is their policy on missed appointments?
Researching any new dentist’s credentials is another good place to start. Things to look for include their education level, how much experience they have, and if they continue their training after being licensed. You should also check to see if they’re a part of the American Dental Association (ADA) or have any malpractice claims against them.
You should also take a look at your dental plan. Knowing what your insurance covers is a big step in choosing a new dentist. Choosing a practice and dentist in your insurance’s network can reduce copay and ensure you’re taken care of if the need arises. But it’s also good to ask the office about their costs. It’s common practice to ask for X-rays, exams, and other basic procedures estimates.
Checking online for patient reviews is another way to ensure you’re getting the best dentist you can. Even if the office seems highly rated, examine any poor ratings closely and understand the complaints left. Sometimes, it might seem as simple as poor service. But, in other cases, it can be something more serious.
Another way to ensure you choose the right fit is to visit the dentist’s office. Most practices offer consultations, and some offer tours of the office. If it’s possible to tour the office, here are a few things to look for:
- Is the office neat and clean?
- Do they have updated and well-maintained equipment?
- Is the staff courteous and thorough in answering questions?
- Does the staff wear the proper protective gear?
Your Dental Health Should Always Matter
Establishing a good relationship with your dental provider is just as important as establishing a positive relationship with another healthcare provider. It might seem like a menial, simple task, but in reality, it’s more complex than most people give it credit for. And it can be simple if you know what to look for in the office and what questions you should ask. This relationship can last for years, which is as essential as the one with your doctor.
