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Page 2 of 2 Does he provide digital X-rays to reduce the amount of radiation exposure to his patients?Does he employ modern cavity detection methods to better the chances of catching a problem early while it’s still small and treatment is least invasive?What sedation options does he offer? (This is especially important if you have a dental-phobia.)How does he handle after-hour emergency care? If you have a problem at night or on the weekend, will he or someone else be available to address it?Is the facility neat and clean?What’s the wait like? Are you left unattended in the waiting room for half an hour or does the staff make an effort to get you in and out quickly?Is the staff friendly? Do they go out of their way to make you feel welcome?Does the dentist place an emphasis on conservative dentistry—i.e. taking the least aggressive route possible and preserving as much of your natural tooth as he can?Does he offer oral cancer screening as part of your regular care?What procedures does the dentist offer in-house? For which will you be referred out-of-office?Does he ask for your complete medical history? (This is important if you have allergies or drug intolerances.)Is there an emphasis placed on patient education—i.e. disease prevention and proactive hygiene techniques?What hours and days is he open? How will that work with your schedule?Can he treat all the members of your family including children and the elderly?Does he involve you in treatment planning or will he dictate which steps will be taken when?Does he offer payment plans for things not covered by your insurance?What continuing education do the dentist and staff receive?Will someone in the office work with your insurance company to maximize your dental benefits or are you left to deal with that on your own?If you require special assistance such as wheelchair access, nitrous oxide, pre-medication, etc. are they available? In the end, it comes down to your comfort level. The dentist who’s perfect for your best friend might not be a fit for you. Trust your instincts. How do you feel when you enter the office? How are you treated by the staff? Does the dentist take time on your first visit to really get to know you and listen to your concerns? Most of us will never look forward to a visit to the dentist. But it shouldn’t be a harrowing experience either. Finding a dentist who’s the best fit for you can make keeping your pearly whites a tolerable—if not completely enjoyable—experience.
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