According to research from Psychology Today, almost 70% of adults have a fear of going to the dentist. Maybe it’s the drills and needles, or the long hours spent holding your mouth open that sparks the fear. Or perhaps, it’s the financial costs associated with dental care. For many people with health and dental insurance, dental coverage only covers a fraction of the costs of procedures. This is the number one reason many people endure toothaches and bad teeth for so long instead of having them fixed.
Yet, as you may know, there comes a time when you cannot ignore a toothache any longer—one of the most painful experiences known to mankind. At that point, you have to choose a dentist. But which one? Do you trust your friends’ or family members’ recommendations? Do you pick the dentist closest to you or the first one who can get you in? Ideally, you would find a dental office that you love and trust, one that uses the latest technology to reduce discomfort and pain, and one that you can afford. Suffice it to say, there are countless factors to consider when choosing a dentist for yourself and your family. Unfortunately, most people look for a dentist when they’re in dire straits with a dental problem and don’t take the time to do proper research beforehand.
The American Dental Association’s Advice for Finding a Dentist
The first thing to look for when searching for a dentist in the United States is to ensure they are certified with the American Dental Association (ADA). Like most professional organizations, dentists who are registered and comply with ADA standards are kept up to date and are required to complete a certain number of continuing education hours each year. They are also obligated to follow strict ethical standards and codes of conduct. The good news is that 7 out of 10 dentists are registered with and in compliance with the ADA. You can check out www.ada.org for a full list of ADA-registered dentists.
Next, ensure that the dentist you choose accepts your insurance. Dental procedures are costly, and choosing a dentist outside of your insurance network can lead to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses. Call the office to verify that they accept your insurance, or you can check the dentist’s listing on your dental insurance provider’s website to see if they’re listed. Keep in mind that insurance plans differ and may charge different amounts or apply different payment schedules if the dentist is “out of network.”
If you need extensive work done and will have to pay out of pocket for some expenses, check if the dental office offers payment plans. Some offices offer these, while others expect full payment at the time of service.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations. Often, the best way to find a compassionate dentist is through a recommendation. This allows you to get a general idea about how the office is run, how friendly the staff is, and what to expect during your visit. While your sister may love a dentist and you may not feel the same, asking people you know is a good place to start. You can even ask your friends on Facebook for recommendations and hear why they like or dislike a particular dentist.
Researching Your Dentist
Once you’ve narrowed your choices down, do a quick online search to see if there are any complaints or compliance issues. Keep in mind that not everything you read online is true, but if you find numerous complaints about a particular dentist, it may be a red flag, and you may want to consider another option.
Another important thing to consider is the dentist’s office hours and scheduling availability. Different dentists have different schedules, and many are closed on either Mondays or Fridays. Some dentists may offer extended hours during the week (which is perfect if you work) or even be open on Saturdays. You should also inquire about how quickly they can fit you in. Often, when you need a dentist, you need to be seen ASAP. Having to wait 2-3 weeks for an appointment won’t be helpful, so make sure to ask about their emergency procedures.
The location of the office is another important factor. Finding a conveniently located office will make it easier for you to access the dentist, especially in emergencies.
If you’re a general dental coward (which most of us are), make sure to ask about what type of anesthesia they use. Some dentists no longer use “laughing gas,” and may have other ways to keep you comfortable during your visit.
Finally, assess the office environment by visiting the office. What is your first impression? Is the office clean? Do the staff seem well-groomed and wear gloves at all times? Don’t hesitate to ask the staff about their methods for cleaning the office and equipment. For example, is plastic covering the chairs used for dental procedures? If you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to ask.
When you meet the dentist, make sure you’re comfortable with them. They should be personable and willing to explain all procedures and your treatment plan. If you feel uneasy or uncomfortable with the dentist, remember that there are plenty of other dentists to choose from. After all, a dentist is providing a service that you’ll be paying for, and you deserve the opportunity to be picky.
