The One: Finding The Right Dentist

Did you have a bad experience with your new dentist that’s why you’re looking for a new one? Did you unconsciously lose all your teeth in the process? Well, I hope not. That would be the worst that could happen in the dental world just yet. Definitely, it would make it to the headlines. But seriously, finding the right dentist isn’t a trivial matter everyone should just ignore. Your oral health is one of the things you need to be truly concerned of. You just can’t trust every dental clinic you see in your city--in Washington DC, for example. You have to be cautious--not just for the sake of it, but because you learned your lesson, and you don’t want to make the same mistake again. So, here’s a guide you can use in your search of finding the one.

Specialization

By knowing the specialization of a prospect dentist, you get to assess how suitable your dentist’s capabilities are to your dental needs. However, if you don’t have any major plan yet, it would be advisable to pick a dental clinic consisting of a group of competent dentists with different specializations. You’ll need a particular expert that could take care of your specific oral problem--periodontists, dental hygienists, oral surgeons, orthodontists and general dentists, and others.

Play Detective

I’m not suggesting you wear a camouflage, bring a telescope and follow your prospect dentist wherever he or she goes--that would totally creep him or her out. Talking is way better than stalking. When you enter a dental clinic, ask questions, most especially if you have plans on having cosmetic surgery. As suggested by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), check out some before-and-after photos of the dentist’s past procedures. Somehow, it will give you an overview of the quality of service he or she is capable of rendering. It is also advisable to ask who his or her references are. It would be a big plus too if you could gather information about your potential dentist’s continuing studies. I’m sure you’d prefer someone who is updated with the latest dental procedures over the ones who do not. Just keep asking questions, and you’ll surely get your answers.

Word Of Mouth

There’s no better way to find a good dentist through the word-of-mouth promotions from people you know well. Ask for recommendations from family members and friends. Of all people, they’re the ones who certainly wouldn’t put your dental health in jeopardy. The best thing about this is that you get to hear personal testimonials and you get to evaluate their satisfaction level, eye to eye outside a dental clinic. You can also ask questions that you’re too shy to ask directly to your potential dentist, if you are that type.

Don’t pressure yourself into finding the right dentist as quickly as possible. A little time (more than three months is too long) and a little curiosity won’t hurt us, right? So go out and good luck! Sooner or later, you’ll find the one.

Tiffany Wilson is an assistant to a dentist in a local dental clinic in Washington DC. Know more about dental clinic Washington DC here.