Finding a dentist in your area that you feel comfortable with is important for setting the foundation for your oral health. But with so many to choose from, it is hard to determine which dentist is right for you.
What Makes the Best Dentist?
Before you can begin searching for the best dentist, you have to decide what that means to you. This will allow you to narrow your search a little bit. For instance, if the best dentist for you would be within 10 minutes from your home, then you can automatically rule out those that are further away.
Consider the things that matter to you. Below is a list of a few things you may - or may not have - considered.
- Does the office offer the services you will need?
- If you have dental insurance or a discount plan, do they accept it?
- Does this dentist have any specialties you have been considering?
- If English isn’t it, would you prefer a dentist who speaks your native language?
- What type of office hours would you prefer?
Put a list together of the things that you find important so that you can narrow your search as you go.
Begin Your Search
Alright, now that the groundwork has been laid, let’s talk about the search. How do you set out looking for - and finding - the best dentist?
Well, you could stick to the old fashion way and talk to friends, co-workers, and neighbors. Ask who their dentist is and what their experience has been like. Or, you can take advantage of technology and jump on the internet.
By doing a simple search for “dentists near me,” you can find a whole list of websites of local dentists. Scour through their websites and you can probably answer some of your questions above. You can even search the dentist’s name to learn a little more info.
Reading testimonials and reviews online can be great, but you also want to remain a little cautious. You don’t want someone else’s experience to deter yours. At the same time, if a dentist has 2 positive reviews and 39 terrible ones, this could be a serious red flag.
Set Up a Visit
Once you have narrowed your search down to a couple of dentists, begin setting up visits. Make an appointment to meet the dentist, see the office, and get a feel for the practice. You want to feel comfortable and welcomed from the moment you walk in the door. Everything should look nice and clean - and smell fresh and clean, too.
Bring with you a list of questions that will help you get to know the dentist and the practice, as well as help you know whether or not you are at the “best” dentist’s office. Some examples are:
- Do you employ the latest technology and procedures?
- What happens if I have a dental emergency outside of office hours?
- Do you offer financing options for major procedures?
Let the dentist and staff know during this visit whether or not you have any issues or concerns, such as dental fear and anxiety, and find out how they are equipped to make the experience comfortable for you.
Make Your Selection
Once you have gone through the list, made your visits, and met with dentists in your community, it is time to make your selection. So much of your overall health is tied to your oral health -- which is why it is so important to choose a dentist that offers everything you are looking for, including expert care and treatment
so that you will begin a positive journey to great oral health in the future.
MD Smiles is the Best Local Dentist
If you are looking for a dentist in Ellicott City - or the surrounding areas - MD Smiles may be the best choice for you. We offer a warm approach with much attention placed on the care and comfort of our patients.
Schedule a consultation - we would love to meet you.