5 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Dentist

A good dentist can make all the difference in the world, both in the care you receive and how you feel during your appointments. Did you know around 36% of people in the U.S. fear the dentist? 12% even characterize their fear as extreme.

Dentophobia, an extreme fear of visiting a dentist, is problematic because people with this condition may not get the oral health care they need.

One way to overcome this dread is to find the right dentist. After finding a reputable, experienced, and trustworthy dentist, your fears will likely evaporate – and your oral health will likely improve.

Consider these five tips for finding the right dentist for your dental health. 

1. Ask People You Trust

Have you heard the saying that the best form of marketing is word-of-mouth marketing? Happy clients make the best marketers for any business. After all, the best way to determine how a dentist will treat you is to see how they’ve treated previous clients.

So, if a family member, friend, neighbor, co-worker, or someone else in your sphere of influence recommends a dentist, take their comments seriously and investigate further.

Getting positive feedback from people you trust is a great way to find a service provider in any industry. Finding a great dentist is no different. You can use the feedback to create a shortlist of candidates and choose the best option.

2. Read Online Reviews

Reading online reviews is another way to find a dentist you’ll feel comfortable with. While reviews from people you don’t know might not be as useful as recommendations from others, there is value in seeing what other people say about dentists in the community.

You can learn which dentists are highly recommended and which are widely panned. While you should take online reviews written by strangers with a grain of salt, that doesn’t mean you should ignore them. That’s especially true if there’s a critical mass of reviews that mention the same things about different dentists. 

3. Check Out Dental Practice Websites

It’s also a good idea to check out the websites of dental practices in the area. You can learn about the practices, the dentists who work there, and the services they offer. Don’t underestimate the wealth of information on these websites. They can help you find a dentist you can trust.

4. Consider Location and Office Hours

It’ll be easier to make dentist appointments if you find one in a convenient location and with office hours that align with your schedule. One of the worst things you can do is select a dentist with a location or office hours that make it hard to book appointments.

5. Set Up Initial Consultation

Book an initial face-to-face consultation when you find a dentist who seems like a good fit. During the consultation, ask questions and weigh the answers. Make sure the dentist is committed to delivering the level of care you need to feel comfortable and safe. You’ll want to get a feel for the dentist, their personality, and their communication style to determine if they’re the right service provider.

The Right Dentist Will Make All the Difference

Finding the right dentist can make all the difference if you’re fearful or hesitant to seek dental care. Asking people you know and trust, checking out online reviews and testimonials, visiting dentist websites, and booking face-to-face consultations with dentists on your shortlist can help you make an informed decision. 

You’ll get the help you need, feel more comfortable, and enjoy good dental health.