What To Look For When Choosing A Local Dentist

December 9, 2020

Your oral health is important and plays a key role in your overall well-being. Choosing a local dentist who you’re comfortable with and can feel good about visiting is the first step to a beautiful, healthy smile!

If you’re looking for an NW Calgary dentist, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll talk about ways to find a great dental office, what questions to ask, and steps that you can take to find the right dentist to fit your needs. By the end of this article, we’re confident that you’ll be able to narrow down your search and have exactly what you need to know for your first consultation.

1. Location And Office Hours

One of the first things to consider is to research dental offices that are close to home or work. Convenient accessibility will make it easier to schedule visits and to arrive on time. Make a note of their office hours to make sure that they are open when you’re available to schedule appointments. From here, create a list of your top 10 choices to narrow down your search.

2. Reputation And Reviews

Reading patient reviews online will address any concerns and answer the questions that you might have. It will also help to eliminate some offices from your list. Be sure to read both the positive and negative reviews to get a fair and comprehensive idea of patient experiences.

3. Friends And Family Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a great dentist is to ask your trusted friends and family. You can also ask your physician or pharmacist for a referral, as these medical professionals often get feedback on local dentists in the area and can give you a good recommendation.

4. Make Sure Your Dentist Meets Your Needs

Make a list of what specific criteria you are looking for in the right dental office. Do you prefer a larger practice with a high volume of patients? Or would you rather seek a smaller office? What makes you feel comfortable when paying a visit to the dentist? What type of service do you expect from the staff? These are all important questions to ask yourself when seeking the right local dentist for you.

5. Schedule A Consultation

When you have a list of potential dentists, call each one before making an appointment. Some great questions to ask over the phone are:

  • What dental procedures are completed in-office and which are referred out?
  • How far in advance do I need to schedule regular checkups and cleanings?
  • How long has the dentist been practicing?

Costs for various procedures vary by practice and, even if you have dental insurance, you might be paying part of the costs out of pocket. Get estimates of what your dentist charges for fillings, crowns, or root canals.

What To Look For During Your First Visit

The first impression is key! During your first visit, look around to make sure that the office is neat and tidy. Make a note of the staff - Are they polite and courteous? Are they knowledgeable? Is the office run with proper procedures and infection control?

Most importantly, evaluate the dentist after your appointment. Are they comfortable answering your questions? Are they willing to accommodate your inquiries? Do you feel that your dental history was handled with care?

Remember, you and your teeth deserve the best care! A great local dental office will provide friendly, knowledgeable service in a clean and welcoming environment. Ask questions, and then ask some more. Your extensive research will pay off when you end up with a long-term oral health partner that fits your needs.

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