|
Evaluating dentists in your area can be a tricky proposition, particularly if you’re new to town, or you have a family with diverse needs that aren’t always easily handled by one person. Many people of all ages are fearful and anxious when it comes time for a trip to the dentist’s office, so choosing a dental professional that puts you at ease and takes the difficulty out of routine checkups and teeth cleanings is a must. While it’s important that your dentist be skilled, knowledgeable, and have impeccable credentials, it’s even more important that you have a certain level of trust and a positive rapport with him. As with any other profession, not all dentists approach their job---or their patients--- in the same way. Skill and education doesn’t necessarily add up to a compassionate bedside manner that reduces your anxiety, and choosing the wrong dental professional for you can actually lead to you neglecting proper care of your teeth due to fear of the dentist. While the internet and recommendations from friends and family provide a great starting point if you’re in the market for a new dentist, there’s no substitute for personal interaction. Once you’ve done your research on dentists that fit the bill in terms of what you and your family need from a caregiver, it’s time to start making appointments to visit the offices of the candidates. If you need a dentist for children under 17, it’s best to bring them along to the office with you for the interview. In most cases, you can get a general feel for both the dentist’s personality and how her office operates during a short, pleasant visit. Is the waiting room tense and crowded? Is the office staff friendly and helpful? When you discuss your needs and concerns with the dentist, does she take the time to explain complicated matters in a straightforward and compassionate way? Does the office work with your insurance company? Once you’ve chosen the dentist you like, the next step is to schedule an introductory visit. This usually involves a full exam, X-Rays, a cleaning, and a discussion of any dental work you need to have done. If it’s been awhile since you last visited a dentist, or you know that you’re facing significant dental work, it’s best to inform the dentist of these facts before the examination even begins. Similarly, if you’re particularly anxious about any procedure, instruments, or require sedation for even routine procedures like cleanings, it’s important to explain these things to the dentist prior to sitting in the chair. A dental professional who doesn’t take the time to listen during this first visit, attempts to pressure you into costly dental work or procedures you’re uncomfortable with, or leaves other staff members to discuss and explain your options is one that’s probably best avoided. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with jumping ship if you’ve chosen incorrectly. There are plenty of dentists out there that will offer the quality service and compassionate patient care you need, so you can afford to say a hasty goodbye to the options that just don’t work for you. Deciding between multiple Detroit dentists can be a stressful process. To help you in your search, please visit: http://www.angieslist.com/
Related Articles -
Detroit, dentists,
|
