20 Apr 2021
Finding the right dentist for you and your family can be challenging. With so many options available, how do you choose a dentist that is right for you? It’s important to find a dentist that is experienced and knowledgeable. It is equally important to find a dentist that is caring and compassionate.
If you are looking for a dentist in the Rochester, NY area, we hope that you will consider Dr. Fred Blum & Associates. Our entire dental team is experienced, compassionate, and dedicated to our patients.
Whether you are new to the area or unhappy with your current dentist, there are better methods for picking a new dentist than closing your eyes and choosing the first provider in your insurance’s company’s directory. Read on to learn what to look for in a dentist.
Partnership
Dental providers who create partnerships with their patients are invested in their patient’s long-term health goals. Some of the questions you can ask: On average, how long does the dentist spend with each patient? Is he/she available to answer your questions and address your concerns?
It is important to find a dentist who shows an interest in getting to know you. Someone who will listen to you and will respect your concerns when it comes to your treatment preferences.
Education & Experience
It is important to find a dentist who is not only experienced, but one who continues to learn. Education is so important in a field that is constantly changing and improving. The field of dentistry has grown exponentially and new dental materials and techniques continue to be developed and implemented.
You want your dentist to be knowledgeable and well versed in all the latest technologies. When you’re visiting the dentist’s office for the first time, don’t be afraid to ask about the dentist’s education and qualifications. You want to make sure they’ve made continuing education a priority.
Insurance & Payment Policy
When making your first appointment, ask questions pertaining to the office’s payment policies. Call your insurance representative to help you understand your specific plan and what benefits are offered. Choosing the right dentist is not about in-network coverage or out-of-network. It’s about your comfort level and what you require.
Some patients are looking for a dentist that is more warm and fuzzy, while others are more comfortable with someone that is all business. Regardless of what motivates you, the skill and experience of the provider is paramount.
Patient Reviews
Reading what other patients say about a dentist you are considering can give you a lot of insight. Is the dentist compassionate? Gentle? Does he take the time to answer questions and address concerns? Is he experienced?
Patient reviews will also give you a lot of insight into the practice itself. Is it easy to schedule appointments? Is the staff friendly?
Remember that unhappy patients are more likely to leave a review, so take things with a grain of salt. As you read through reviews, look for recurring themes.
Meet for a Consultation
Once you have a list of several potential providers, schedule a phone or in-person consultation. Choosing the right dentist for you and your family is a big decision. You want to make sure that the dentist you select is someone you can trust and who is willing to develop a partnership with you.
When it comes to the health of you and your family, don’t settle. If the dentist that you initially selected doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t be afraid to look elsewhere. Remember, your mouth is the main pathway to everything that enters your body. Your dental care should be comprehensive and health-centered. Your oral health is about more than just an attractive smile.
