What Steps Should You Take When Looking for a New Dentist?

Whether you’re moving to a new town, are unhappy with your current dentist, or simply want a dentist who can treat you and your children in one location, it can be hard to figure out which one is right for you. Either way, you’re going to need to answer a lot of important questions before establishing a relationship with your new dental care provider.

These are a few of the most important step to take when choosing a new dentist. You’ll be glad you kept them in mind.

Determine Your Family’s Needs

What you need from a dentist can vary quite a bit depending on the size of your family. If it’s only you and one other person, you’ll need to discuss what you expect a dentist to provide besides regular dental exams and cleanings. For example, if you’re considering cosmetic treatment to improve the look of your smile, you’ll want to check if a dentist offers those services on their website. There’s nothing worse than walking into a dental office only to have them tell you they can’t do what you need.

Additionally, if you have kids, older family members living with you, or both, then you’ll want to check if the practice has experience with younger and older patients. At the very least, the dentist should have some experience working with these specific demographics and have the services they would likely need.

Research Their Education and Reviews

A great way to confirm if a dentist is right for you is to visit their practice’s website. In the Internet Age, dental practices need to stay competitive, and a great way to do that is to have their own website displaying specific information, such as:

• Patient reviews
• Educational background
• Accreditations
• Years of experience

This info can typically be found in their bio section, “meet the doctors” page, or contact page. You’ll also learn if they are active in any dental organizations. This shows that they are regularly continuing their education and/or keeping promises to provide you a certain level of care. For example, check to see if they are a member of the American Dental Association.

Make a Visit to the Practice

Many dentists encourage new patients to get to know them in person and do a walkthrough of the practice they’ll be receiving care. By doing this, they’re willing to prove they can provide you precisely the care you’re looking for and be transparent about what they do and don’t offer.

Don’t feel like you’re intruding on the dentist by asking for this visit. Dentists regularly offer consultations to new patients who are considering a new dentist in the area. These consultations allow them to show off their practice’s technology, knowledge, and their ability to provide dental care. Plus, you’ll get to ask any questions you may have.

Once you have this information, you’ll be well equipped to make a decision. Schedule a consultation with a dentist today to learn more!

About the Author

Dr. Jacob Milner earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the University of Maryland Dental School. Afterwards, he interned at Kernan Hospital with an emphasis in pediatric dentistry followed by participating in a senior year clerkship at the Levindale Geriatric Center. To learn about the many dental services his practice offers or ask questions, contact him at (410) 902-4110 or visit his website.