What to Look For in a New Dentist
When you move to a new location, there are a million details to attend to. You must change your address, manage the moving process, locate a new set of restaurants, determine which grocery stores are better, and become acquainted with the public transportation system. Finding a new dentist is one of the most important items on that list.
Trying to figure out how to choose a dentist in a new city can be difficult. Fortunately, there are alternatives to closing your eyes and pointing to a random name in the phone book. Today on the blog, our Loganville dentist office share what to look for in a new dentist.
1. Examine the Insurance
When looking for a dentist, one of the first questions you should ask is which insurance plans they accept. Dental care can be costly, especially if you require procedures such as root canals or fillings. Before you schedule an appointment, make sure your Bethlehem GA dentist accepts your family’s insurance.
You could also do it the other way around and contact your insurance company. Ask them which dentists in your area are covered by their network, and then work your way down the list. Check on any copays you may be required to make for your care while you’re on the phone with them.
2. Inquire About Service Options
Depending on your oral health, you may need to undergo a number of procedures. Wisdom teeth extraction, crowns or implants, or orthodontic work may be required for you or a family member. You don’t want to be juggling a million different dentist’s offices and bills.
Instead, look for a dentist who provides a wide range of services. Dentists may provide cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry, restorative dentistry, and emergency dental care. A dentist is a good choice if they provide all of these options.
3. Find a Family Dentist if You Have Kids
Inquire if the dentist you’re considering has a limit on the number of patients he or she will see. If they don’t treat young children and you have young children, it’s a good idea to find a pediatric dentist Bethlehem GA who can treat everyone in your family. You don’t want to be driving everyone around to different dentist’s offices for the next fifteen years.
4. Check the Dentist’s Credentials
If your dentist is going to be working on your mouth, you want them to be well-qualified. Your oral health is as important as the rest of your health.
When you visit the dentist, inquire about your dentist’s credentials. You want to ensure that they have prioritized continuing education. Dr. Jinyoung Kim, our friends over at Park Hills Family Dentistry, Lexington KY Dentist, explains that her practice is always looking to continue their dental education. At Gentle Dental Group, we maintain this as well, which is why we are always learning and expanding our knowledge.
5. Examine the Reviews
Of course, everything may appear to be fine on the surface, but current patients will tell you the real story. Examine the reviews for the dentist you’re considering. Pay close attention to any recurring themes in the reviews.
Keep in mind that dissatisfied customers are more likely to leave a review than satisfied customers, so take everything with a grain of salt. If one reviewer says the dentist was horrible to them or misdiagnosed them, but the rest of the reviews say they’re a fantastic dentist, you’re probably fine. However, if you notice a consistent thread of reviews claiming that the dentist is insensitive or incompetent, you should probably look elsewhere.
Learn How to Choose a Dentist
Choosing a dentist is one of those things that can be difficult to figure out on your own. Check that they can meet all of your family’s needs and that you feel at ease in their office. Also, make certain that your insurance will cover service with them.
Come see us at Gentle Dental Group if you’re looking for a new dentist in the Bethlehem GA area. We provide tons of unique services and it is our mission to serve our patients with gentle dental care. Make an appointment with us today to schedule your next cleaning and exam.