Regular dental visits are critical when it comes to your long-term oral health. Starting early is key as it can help instill healthy oral care habits into your children. Having the entire family prioritize oral health is also extremely impactful. Finding a dentist that can work with your entire family is key. It can save you a lot of time and is extremely convenient. The hard part is finding a dentist that works for your entire family. Below you will find helpful tips on how to choose the best dentist for your family.
How to choose the best dentist for your family
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a family dentist. Consider the following as you navigate the process.
Location:
It’s important to make going to the dentist convenient. A huge factor in convenience is location. Location can be tricky depending on where you live. However, try to find a family dentist within a small radius of your home. A great rule of thumb is finding one that is less than a 15-minute drive away. This can help make going to appointments easier so you don’t skip out due to traffic or lack of time.
Hours of Operation:
Another key factor in the process is finding a family dentist who has hours that work for you. If you have multiple children and a busy family, normal business hours may not cut it. Look for a family dentist that has extended hours in the morning or evening. Some dentists even open for a short time on the weekends. Consider their hours to ensure it will work within your family’s schedule.
Services Offered:
Finding a family dentist that offers a wide variety of services is key. A family dentist should offer pediatric and adult dentistry services, including restorative, cosmetic, and preventive dentistry. It’s a great sign if you can get a root canal and orthodontic treatment at the same location. Consider your short- and long-term dental needs in comparison to their services.
Dental Credentials:
Take a look at the credentials of your dentist. Finding someone that is well-educated with a lot of experience is key. Consider their continuing education and whether they have any special certificates. It is key to have a dentist that is skilled and experienced in family dentistry.
Reviews and Testimonials:
Never underestimate the value of online reviews. Patient testimonials and unbiased online reviews can tell you a lot about a dentist. Finding a kids dentist that has great reviews and a bunch of happy clients is a good sign. Unless the dentist is new, a full schedule is also a good sign. This means that their patients are happy to return due to the quality of their dental services.
Insurance Coverage:
Dental services can be expensive without insurance. Be sure that your insurance covers the specific family dentist you want to see. This can ensure that our dental visit is affordable. Even if you don’t have insurance, some dentists offer sliding scales. Consult with the family dentist you want to see about billing to make sure it’s the right fit for you.
Personal Preference:
Trusting your gut is important when it comes to dental care. If you feel good about your family dentist and they meet all of your requirements, stick with them. However, if you do not have a good feeling you shouldn’t force anything. While you don’t have to stick with the same dentist forever, it can be helpful. Having a regular dentist can ensure your dental records are in one place. It can also help your dentist monitor your oral health over time.
