Visiting the dentist can be a harrowing experience. Few people enjoy somebody poking around in their mouths with sharp equipment. Factor in more invasive, painful procedures and you have the recipe for some major league anxiety. Since you’ll need to see a dentist at least a few times yearly it’s imperative to find the right match. Experience plays a chief role in choosing a dentist but the individual must vibe with you on a deeper level. Do your homework thoroughly to find a skilled professional who resonates with you on a personal level.
Chemistry is everything. Even the most experienced, capable dentist won’t help you if you feel uncomfortable around the person. Sit down for a talk with the dentist to see if the professional is the right fit for you.
Use these tips to pick your dentist.
Ask for Referrals
Asking around for referrals can help you find a trusted professional. Check with your friends, family and co-workers, along with your current dentist if you have one, to identify potential matches. Tapping in to the power of your network makes your search easier. You’ll be getting advice from trusted sources and your leg work will be less because friends and family will supply you with candidates through simple word of mouth marketing. Don’t hesitate to ask anybody you meet about their dentist. The more people you ask the more options you have to sift through.
Work through the list of potential dentists by gauging feedback. Go with professionals who receive glowing, enthusiastic reviews from friends and family. Check with your current dentist for a professional referral. If a dentist refers you to another professional you’re likely being introduced to a highly skilled, experience dentist who can meet all of your dental needs.
Use the Internet
Social media communities, blogs and forums are meeting places for like-minded people. Social media websites devoted to dentistry through Facebook Groups and Google Plus Communities can provide you with dentists in your area. Become an active, engaging member of these communities to see the greatest returns. Visit dental blogs and websites for a first hand glimpse at a practice. Skilled, savvy dentists will run helpful blogs or perhaps they will share free, practical tips on how to keep your teeth clean through their websites.
Check the Logistics
A dentist may pass each checkpoint until you take logistics into account. If the office is too far from your home or if they only keep hours on Monday to Friday you must cross them off of your list if you can only see dentists on the weekends due to your job. Check into payment plans if you don’t have dental insurance and ask the dentist how they handle emergency situations if you’re suffering from an issue outside of office hours.
Test Call
Call the dentist’s office to observe how you’re treated by the staff. Being greeted by a courteous, helpful receptionist and being helped in a professional manner gives you a strong vote of confidence in the entire practice. Staff should be friendly, pleasant and should also respond in a timely fashion.
Michigan residents who need a dentist should contact Dr. Ban Barbat.