Ask about their credentials

Clearly, they went to dental school but what else? Health care is a dynamic profession, and it takes a lot to stay on top of new technologies and treatments. Researching a dentist’s credentials is the first step in choosing the right dentist for your family. Check the dentist’s website for detailed information about his/her education and professional background.

Look around the office—and ask about their technology

While no one needs to have all the newest gadgets and gizmos, they do need to be up-to-date. does the office appear clean and orderly? Do they have the technology to show you what’s going on in your mouth? Most offices have intraoral cameras and digital x-rays. Will they take the time to explore the condition of your mouth with you.

LOOK AT PATIENT REVIEWS

The most legitimate listings with extremely stringent criteria are Google Local Business Listings  Why? Because these are carefully monitored with very strict rules. Google has over 200 algorithm checks for websites alone, so you can bet they take their local business listing reviews seriously. Check for patient reviews, especially the long in-depth ones that are carefully worded and describe the result. Some dentists also have before and after pictures of their work. It’s always wise to go through the dentist’s website or even give them a call and speak with them before scheduling an appointment.

All Dental Services in One Office. Most people appreciate the ability to visit the same office for all their dental care needs. Selecting a dental office that can provide almost all dental services in one convenient office can be a true benefit.

...and how not to choose a dentist

• By the list from your insurance company

Unfortunately, your insurance company isn’t always looking out for your best interests

• By the price tag Good dentistry done right the first time can save you time, money, and pain (physical and emotional).  you might have a rather large cavity in a tooth, and while you could put a big filling in it for less money, down the road, that tooth could crack, need a root canal, or worse yet, need to be pulled and an implant placed. So, for the price of an excellent-fitting crown the first time, you could have saved thousands of your hard earned money.
• Because someone tells you their dentist is “nice”

you can ask to see examples of their dentistry; look at before and after pictures and x-rays of recent crowns they have done. How does their dentistry look to you? Does it look natural or like bright white chiclets? Ask them to explain what you’re looking at and why they’re exceptional at what they do.

• The office is right around the corner

While convenience is great, especially in today’s busy world, location doesn’t equal a perfect fit.

Finding a dentist who will take the time to listen, help you establish health goals, and evaluate your current and future needs will set you up for a lifetime of good oral health. And good oral health will, in turn, benefit your overall wellness and longevity. So, choose wisely. Your life could depend on it.