HOW TO FIND A GREAT SALT LAKE CITY DENTIST
For many people, the thought of going to the dentist is on par with filing taxes: it has to be done, but it can be intimidating, possibly painful, and potentially costly. The scenario can get worse for parents who want quality care for their children in a relaxed, friendly environment that will prevent dental-phobia.
Despite misgivings, we know that dental care is important to our overall health and even our appearance; so we grit our teeth, so to speak, and make an appointment.
But what if you need to find a dentist? Maybe you've just moved to a new area. Perhaps you need a dentist for your child, or find yourself in need of a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry. Sometimes it's a good idea to take the time to consider your present dentist and evaluate any changing needs and experiences you've had.
Whatever your reasons, the question looms: How do I find a really good dentist?
Here are a few ideas for starting your search:
Dental Schools
Dental schools can give names of those members of their faculty who are in practice. However, if there isn't a dental school in your general area, this is not an option.
Dental Societies
These offer names of dentists in your area, serving as a good starting point.
Personal Recommendations
Ask people you know: family members, friends, neighbors, acquaintances. Ask your family doctor or other local health professional.
Other Dentists
Relocating? Ask your present dentist if he or she knows dentists in the area to which you're moving.
If you are in need of a specialist such as an orthodontist for your child or a cosmetic dentist, ask your family dentist for some recommendations.
Okay, I've got some names. Now what?
Here are some important questions and considerations to factor into your decision:
Location
A location convenient to your home or work may be important to you. Or you may be willing to travel a little further if a particular dentist offers the best "fit" for you and your family. Either way, this can begin the process of narrowing down your list of possible dentists.
Consult
The best way to determine such a "fit" is from actual time with the dentist and observation of how the office is run. Call and ask about a consultation. Many dentists offer a free visit, giving you the chance to ask questions and take in the atmosphere of the office. While you are there, here the important things to consider:
Atmosphere
What is the general "feel" of the office? Is it comfortable? Is the staff friendly and efficient? If you have children, will the office seem inviting through their eyes?
Notice the dentist's interaction with his staff. Is it pleasant and comfortable, yet professional? As you walk through the office, observe the habits of the staff. For example, do they wear gloves? Are the individual rooms or cubicles clean and organized?
Questions
Have your questions written down when you meet with the dentist.
Financial issues are among the most important from both the patient's and dentist's points of view. You'll want to know about fees for the most common procedures such as general exams, fillings, x-rays, cleanings, and (especially if you have children) sealants.
Which insurance plans are accepted? What payment plans are available? Payment plans are especially important if you don't have dental insurance or, if you do, the coverage is limited.
Does the staff file claims or does the office expect payment upfront, with the patient filing the insurance claim?
What are the days and hours the office is open? How are emergency visits managed? How are missed appointments handled?
Ask about preventive dentistry. What is the dentist's approach? Do you share the same basic philosophy? Dentists usually encourage regular checkups. Some people follow the recommended schedules precisely, while others are content going as the need arises.
What about experience and education? How long has he been in practice? Does he hold any distinguishing certifications or other accolades? Does he continue his education by attending conferences or workshops?
What services does she provide? A family dentist may offer orthodontics or cosmetic work in addition to general dentistry. What training does she have in the area of interest to you?
What anesthetics are available through this dentist, and what are his policies about administering them? This is an issue that is particularly important for children or adults with special needs.
As you talk, do you feel at ease with the dentist? Is it easy to ask her questions? Do you feel respected? Do you feel like you would be "partnering" with the dentist? Personality style may vary in its importance to potential patients, but you should feel comfortable asking for information - whether regarding treatment or financial concerns.
Children
Whether you prefer a family dentist or a pediatric dentist for your children, there may be more specific concerns. You may have a child who is especially stressed when seeing a dentist. What is the policy regarding a parent's presence during treatment, for example?
What types of "painless" dentistry does he perform?
I've Chosen My Dentist!
Once you've made your choice based on information gleaned from a consultation, you should feel much more comfortable making that first visit. Continue to keep communication open, ask questions as they come up, and chances are, a trusting relationship with this important health professional will bring peace of mind and happy smiles.
For many people, the thought of going to the dentist is on par with filing taxes: it has to be done, but it can be intimidating, possibly painful, and potentially costly. The scenario can get worse for parents who want quality care for their children in a relaxed, friendly environment that will prevent dental-phobia.
Despite misgivings, we know that dental care is important to our overall health and even our appearance; so we grit our teeth, so to speak, and make an appointment.
But what if you need to find a dentist? Maybe you've just moved to a new area. Perhaps you need a dentist for your child, or find yourself in need of a dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry. Sometimes it's a good idea to take the time to consider your present dentist and evaluate any changing needs and experiences you've had.
Whatever your reasons, the question looms: How do I find a really good dentist?
Here are a few ideas for starting your search:
Dental Schools
Dental schools can give names of those members of their faculty who are in practice. However, if there isn't a dental school in your general area, this is not an option.
Dental Societies
These offer names of dentists in your area, serving as a good starting point.
Personal Recommendations
Ask people you know: family members, friends, neighbors, acquaintances. Ask your family doctor or other local health professional.
Other Dentists
Relocating? Ask your present dentist if he or she knows dentists in the area to which you're moving.
If you are in need of a specialist such as an orthodontist for your child or a cosmetic dentist, ask your family dentist for some recommendations.
Okay, I've got some names. Now what?
Here are some important questions and considerations to factor into your decision:
Location
A location convenient to your home or work may be important to you. Or you may be willing to travel a little further if a particular dentist offers the best "fit" for you and your family. Either way, this can begin the process of narrowing down your list of possible dentists.
Consult
The best way to determine such a "fit" is from actual time with the dentist and observation of how the office is run. Call and ask about a consultation. Many dentists offer a free visit, giving you the chance to ask questions and take in the atmosphere of the office. While you are there, here the important things to consider:
Atmosphere
What is the general "feel" of the office? Is it comfortable? Is the staff friendly and efficient? If you have children, will the office seem inviting through their eyes?
Notice the dentist's interaction with his staff. Is it pleasant and comfortable, yet professional? As you walk through the office, observe the habits of the staff. For example, do they wear gloves? Are the individual rooms or cubicles clean and organized?
Questions
Have your questions written down when you meet with the dentist.
Financial issues are among the most important from both the patient's and dentist's points of view. You'll want to know about fees for the most common procedures such as general exams, fillings, x-rays, cleanings, and (especially if you have children) sealants.
Which insurance plans are accepted? What payment plans are available? Payment plans are especially important if you don't have dental insurance or, if you do, the coverage is limited.
Does the staff file claims or does the office expect payment upfront, with the patient filing the insurance claim?
What are the days and hours the office is open? How are emergency visits managed? How are missed appointments handled?
Ask about preventive dentistry. What is the dentist's approach? Do you share the same basic philosophy? Dentists usually encourage regular checkups. Some people follow the recommended schedules precisely, while others are content going as the need arises.
What about experience and education? How long has he been in practice? Does he hold any distinguishing certifications or other accolades? Does he continue his education by attending conferences or workshops?
What services does she provide? A family dentist may offer orthodontics or cosmetic work in addition to general dentistry. What training does she have in the area of interest to you?
What anesthetics are available through this dentist, and what are his policies about administering them? This is an issue that is particularly important for children or adults with special needs.
As you talk, do you feel at ease with the dentist? Is it easy to ask her questions? Do you feel respected? Do you feel like you would be "partnering" with the dentist? Personality style may vary in its importance to potential patients, but you should feel comfortable asking for information - whether regarding treatment or financial concerns.
Children
Whether you prefer a family dentist or a pediatric dentist for your children, there may be more specific concerns. You may have a child who is especially stressed when seeing a dentist. What is the policy regarding a parent's presence during treatment, for example?
What types of "painless" dentistry does he perform?
I've Chosen My Dentist!
Once you've made your choice based on information gleaned from a consultation, you should feel much more comfortable making that first visit. Continue to keep communication open, ask questions as they come up, and chances are, a trusting relationship with this important health professional will bring peace of mind and happy smiles.
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