In most cases, a visit to your dentist is not a one-time act. There are regular check-ups and follow-up visits. Therefore, it is very important to choose your dentist very carefully and this might be one of the most important health-related decisions that you make.
A wrong choice can make your visits to a dentist a nightmare. On the other hand, a right choice can shed-off your fears of pain during your treatment.
So, the question is – how should one go about choosing the right dentist for self and family?
Rapport: Many people are hesitant and even terrified about a visit to the dentist. The nervousness worsens the pain felt during the treatment. A right dentist will be able to make you comfortable and help you overcome the fear and anxiety. During your first meeting with a new dentist, see if he or she puts an effort to make you feel comfortable, initiates a pleasant conversation, gives you appropriate information about the procedure in a layman’s language, etc. If the dentist does not take the time to do this, you are probably better off considering a different dentist.
Referrals: Look for referrals to a particular dentist. Talk to friends and family staying in your area and ask if they have had an appointment for a dentist and if the experience was a positive one.
Professionalism: On your first consultation with a new dentist, observe if he or she appears to be professional enough. For example, does the dentist ask you details about your medical history in order to gain insight into the allergies and reactions to various drugs that you may have exhibited in the past. A professional dentist should discuss the treatment plan with the patient and also inform him/her the details of the dental procedures, timelines, etc.
Schedule and Location: Make sure that your dentist is located nearby your home and that the hours of availability is convenient to you.
Wish you a pleasant experience during your dental treatment.
