When it’s time to find a new dentist for your family, you have several options. Ask family and friends for a referral. Or do some research on the internet looking at local dental websites and online reviews. All of these steps can be a little overwhelming so we decided to write this article to help guide you through the process.
While some people still use the yellow pages, it is really not the best way to search for a new dentist. You will never really know just because one dentist has the biggest ad if they are really the best dentist for you.
With either of the above methods, we still highly recommend that you do some research online to see if this is really the dentist you want to send your family to. Visit their website and see what they have to say about themselves. Do they have testimonials from past patients? This is always a good sign. Next type in their business name and see what comes up. You will be surprised to see reviews from all around. Next type in the dentists name and see what comes up. This will often have additional reviews that you can see and read. Because there are so many people and businesses with the same name it is often a good idea to add you city or your city and state to the search as well.
Asking your friends and family is a very logical step. They will tell you their experiences with their dentist. Make sure to ask lots of questions such as the following. Did they take the time necessary to make you feel comfortable and understand what was going to happen? Were they gentle and caring? Did you feel like just another patient or were you treated as though you were the only patient they had? Do you think they were honest and ethical? Do you trust them?
Once you have narrowed your choices down to 2 or 3, I would recommend you start making a few calls. There are a couple of questions you want to ask. You need to find out if they accept your dental insurance. If you have children, find out how they work with kids and the steps they go through with them. Find out if they offer a free initial consultation for you to meet the dentist and get a feel for them.