Eight Easy Steps to Help You Choose a Dentist

Finding a dentist that you are comfortable with and one that fits your needs professionally and financially is an important component of your overall health plan.? Below are some simple steps that will help you find the perfect dentist, and get you on the path toward maintaining proper oral health.

1.? First, contact your state or local dental association? for a referral of a dentist near you (or if you are moving, ask your previous dentist if they can provide a referral).

2.?? Visit to see if your dentist is an American Dental Association member. Obviously, dentists do not have to be members of the ADA to be good, but the ADA helps keep dentists up-to-date with any advancement in the industry. The ADA also ensures that its members follow their mission to commit to 'the public's oral health, ethics, science and professional advancement'.

3.? Check to see if your health plan covers the dentist and ask for information about the fees and expected methods of payment.?? Be sure that you receive estimates for procedures such as full-mouth x-rays, missed appointments, and preventative dental visits that include an oral exam and tooth cleaning.
????????
?????? o If payment plans are necessary, make sure the dentist will work with you. Also, make sure you receive information and understand the fees associated with any work before the treatment is performed.

4.? Shop around!? With your money and your mouth at stake, it's your right (and duty!) to comparison shop for dentists with regard to pricing, location, and reputation.

5.? If possible, visit the office prior to making an appointment.? When choosing the location, consider the following:

?????? o Is the office easy to get to from your home or job? Is the appointment schedule convenient for you?? Remember, you are choosing your dentist so your convenience is paramount.? Also, keep in mind that a hassle free drive will help ensure that missed appointments are kept to a minimum and will make oral care easier to fit into your work and home life routines.

?????? o Is the office clean and orderly? Ask about the sterilization procedures for the instruments. A clean office also shows a manner of professionalism and ensures that the dentist takes the correct precautions in ensuring health and safety.

6.? Talk to the dentist about your oral history (* your previous dentist is required by law to provide you a copy of your dental records, so make sure you ask for them if the dentist does not offer!). Make sure you feel comfortable consulting with your new dentist and he/she explains preventative measures and treatments in a way that you understand. If you feel pressured into a procedure or the dentist does not offer to explain preventative measures, then maybe this dentist isn't the right choice for you!

7.? Check whether or not the dentist provides after-hours and emergency care.? Most dentists do provide this service, but there may be added fees involved.? Be sure to find out ahead of time about additional fees for emergency procedures so that you won't have financial pain in addition to mouth pain!

8.? Make sure your dentist prioritizes a treatment schedule distinguishing problems that need attention immediately and those that are not as urgent. Remember, it is not only your responsibility but also your right to ask questions.? Make certain that you understand all of the fees involved, and why a procedure may be necessary; before making a decision!

You can also contact the national Oral Health Information Clearinghouse for more useful information on dentists and dentistry. If you are handicapped, you can contact the National Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped for assistance.