Looking for a new dentist can be overwhelming. You may notice dozens of dental offices in your local area and want to know what sets the best practices apart.
This blog provides a simple checklist for searching for a new dentist for your family. The checklist contains hints and tips that can make your research process easier and more complete.
Step 1: Get Word of Mouth Recommendations
Many patients rely on their friends, family, and neighbors for personal recommendations. Your friends and family members may want to share their satisfaction with their current dentist or encourage you to become a patient.
Step 2: Perform an Online Search
Search the practice's website. It should be clear, organized, and easy to understand. Most websites contain biographies of the dentist and clinical team. You can dig deeper into the dentist's background and learn about their education and professional memberships. You can also check their listing with state and local licensing boards.
Step 3: Understand the Dentist's Services
Search the dentist's website for details on their services and procedures. If you need a specialty service, check to see whether the dentist provides it or whether you will have to see another doctor.
Look for information on the most popular services below:
- General dentistry: Cleanings, exams, sealants, fluoride
- Family dentistry: Care for the entire family, from children to older adults
- Cosmetic dentistry: Teeth whitening, veneers, clear aligners
- Restorative dentistry: Fillings, same-day crowns, bridges
- Dental implants: Replace missing or damaged teeth
- Emergency dental care: Toothaches, dental trauma
Step 4: Learn About Awards and Accolades
Search local publications for lists of the best practitioners. These publications highlight the most prominent area providers. Paramount Dental Arts was recognized as one of New Jersey's Top Dentists.
Step 5: Check Online Reviews
When you look for online reviews, remember that individual patients may have strong opinions. Look for overall trends in online reviews, whether positive or negative. One negative review should not impact your decision, but if you see a pattern, you may have uncovered good information.
Step 6: Find Out About Payment and Insurance Options
Ensure the practice is in your dental insurer's network. Find out how much you will need to pay out of pocket for essential services. Find out whether the practice offers any alternative payment options.
Step 7: Inquire About an Office Tour
Visiting a practice may give you unique insight that helps you make your decision. You can get a sense of the overall mood and atmosphere at the office. If patients and staff seem calm and relaxed, it will put you at ease. Look for cleanliness, comfort, and amenities.
Selecting the Right Local Dentist
The right dentist can make all the difference in protecting and maintaining your family's oral health for a lifetime. When you feel comfortable with your dentist, you will build a strong relationship and a sense of trust.
Your dentist can be your partner in achieving better oral and overall health. Long-term relationships mean that your dentist can monitor and optimize your care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Oral Health
How often should I see a dentist?
Dental professionals recommend that most patients over age one visit for a cleaning and comprehensive exam twice annually. However, depending on your age, lifestyle, and oral health, your dentist may want to see you more or less frequently.
Why should I see the dentist frequently?
Every patient needs a family dentist to help protect their oral health. If you do not visit frequently, your dental issues may progress to the point where you need costly procedures to safeguard your teeth.
Your oral and overall health are interconnected. Researchers link poor oral health to diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, and preterm birth. Protect yourself by making regular dental visits at least twice annually.
Call Paramount Dental Arts
We hope this guide can simplify the process of finding a new dentist. If you need a dentist in the Clifton, NJ, area, we would gladly meet you and explain how we partner with our patients to improve their oral health.
We would be honored if you considered our practice for your new dental home. Please call our office at 973-777-1772 to inquire about becoming a new patient. We look forward to hearing from you!