When you are in the market for a new dentist, all of the options can be overwhelming and it can be hard to pick one without some guidance. There are some crucial factors to consider when it comes to picking the best dentist for your needs. Every person is different and requires different types of dental care and it is of the utmost importance to find a dentist that can accommodate your specific oral health. This article will give you some helpful tips to guide you in searching for the perfect dentist.

Ask for recommendations

There are dozens of dentists in one area and the first step in your search should be your immediate network of friends and family. Asking for recommendations from those you are close to and whose opinions you value and trust can be the simplest yet most effective way to find the right dentist. Seek out those who have a similar lifestyle to you and ask them which dentist they suggest. If you have a full family that needs dental care, ask someone you know that also has a family. If you are a full-time student, ask your school friends where they are getting dental care.

If you are new to an area or want to further your research, it is wise to check out the American Dental Association website to find practices near you.

Which dentist is most convenient for you?

Many people put off going to the dentist because it is inconvenient and life gets busy. To get yourself on top of your oral health you need to choose a dentist that is most convenient for you. As you are searching for a dentist in your area, it is smart to consider what is most important to you that will make it easier to fit your dental visits in. Maybe going to a dentist near your work or your child’s school will ensure you stick to your appointments, or ease of scheduling will work best for your busy life, or a dentist that can accommodate your entire family at once.

Do they offer hours that work with your schedule?

To go along with the convenience piece, you have to find a dentist that works with your schedule. It would not make sense to go to a dentist that is only open while you are at work because you will never go. People schedule dentist appointments in the middle of their workday but sometimes something comes up that is more important in the moment. If you are always free before work of after, find a dentist that opens early enough or stays open later. Many practices offer weekend hours or special appointments to meet you halfway in your busy life.

What qualities should you look for in a dentist?

There are some qualities that you should look for in a dentist to find the best match for you and your family. Once again, when it comes to dental care it should depend on what you need and care about. Some qualities, however, should be nonnegotiable, like trust. Going to the dentist is a scary experience for many people and is a reason why visits are often avoided. When you trust your dentist and feel comfortable going to their office it can take away the nerves and stress.

This is one reason why recommendations and asking questions from people you trust is so critical in finding the right dentist. Reading reviews on practices in the area and using your resources can give you great insight into what to expect from the dentist and their care. You want to be able to feel comfortable asking your dentist questions regarding your oral health and explaining your concerns because it will make the entire process easier.

Some other qualities that are important to consider are the cleanliness of the office, the knowledge of the entire staff, the experience and education of the dentist, and what types of services they offer. The website of the practice can give you a good look at the education and experience of your dentist, the services they offer, as well as patient reviews.

Does the dentist accept your insurance?

Practices do not usually accept every insurance provider and it can be a very frustrating aspect in searching for a new dentist. Insurance information is not always listed on a dentist’s website either and it can take a little bit of searching to figure out where you can take full advantage of your benefits. If you have narrowed down your options to four or five dentists in your area, you can give them each a quick call to see if they accept your insurance and they will be able to answer all of your questions.

Check out your insurance provider’s website to find a list of dentists that are part of their network, or search the American Dental Association website by payment options in your area.