Friday, July 11, 2014

What to Look for When Selecting a Dentist

Whether you’re relocating to a new area or just shopping around for a new dentist, knowing what to look for is important. After all, the dental care industry is constantly evolving and you may not know all of the available options. In this article, I’ll share some of the most common things prospective patients are looking for when they visit my Jacksonville-area dentist office.

Access

Can you get to the office easily? Is it in a convenient location?

Family Needs

Is the practice family-oriented or does it cater to a more adult crowd?

The Lobby and Waiting Room

 Is it comfortable and welcoming?


The Staff

Are they focused on individualized care from the moment you walk in?

The Appointment Schedule

Do they send reminders? Do they make every effort to stay on time?

The Treatment Rooms

Are they comfortable? Do they have media (e.g. TVs, magazines, and/or music) that will help ease my anxiety?

The Dentist

What is his/her experience level? What are the qualifications and specialties of the practice? Am I comfortable with his/her communication style?

Insurance Coverage and Payment Options

Does the office accept my insurance? Are they willing to work with my provider if it’s out of network? Does the office offer payment plans or special financing for expensive treatments?

Updated Technology

How up-to-date is the treatment equipment? Does the dental care staff, including the dentist, participate in continuing education efforts?

Active Engagement with the Community

Does the office have a Facebook page? Do they interact with their patient community via Twitter, Google +, or Instagram? Do they run treatment specials or coupons through Groupon or their own website?

Positive Reviews

What is the dentist’s reputation? What do reviewers say on Google +, Yelp, and Facebook? Does the dentist respond to review comments in a timely, respectful manner?

Summary


There are many more aspects to picking a dentist than the ones I’ve listed here. But hopefully these questions can serve as a shopping checklist for your dentist search. Good luck and remember: keeping up with check-ups is the best way to keep your smile healthy and to avoid costly dental treatments.

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