Choosing a new dental office can be tricky when switching insurance or moving to a new area.
There are multiple things to consider including your payment options, office credibility, and availability. With so many factors, it can be hard to know where to start.
However, the right dentist is out there, and their office may be closer than you think.
Here are the five things to look for when choosing your new dentist.
1. Know Your Insurance Benefits Before Visiting The Dental Office
Checking your insurance requirements for a dental office is one of the easiest ways to start your search.
Many insurance providers offer a list of compatible services in your area. This saves time by giving you a direct place to start searching, without having to worry about how to pay for your appointment.
Keep in mind not all insurance benefits are the same. They can depend on an independent package or employee benefits.
Even though this list is a good start, be sure to double check your payment options once you call to schedule a visit.
2. Look at the Services Provided
Another thing to look for are the services available.
Are you looking to get oral surgery or implants? Do you prefer your young ones to go to a children’s specialist?
The answers to these questions can further narrow a search for a new office. Not all dentists practice the same specific skills, so keep an eye out for the work you need.
3. Research the Professional Team
Once you’ve found the right offices to match your basic needs, start to get a feel for the people who will actually do the treatment.
Reading doctor bios can say a lot about the standards of care provided by a dental office.
It will tell you the level of experience and professionalism, and will often share the niche fields of practice each doctor prefers. Doctor and staff bios are like a window into the way an office operates.
Some will be family-owned and well-established for years in your area. Others will be more fresh, which might be a hit or miss experience.
Take the time to do your research on this page of an office’s website, you will thank yourself later.
4. Read the Reviews
Speaking of further research, don’t overlook the value of reading first-hand experiences.
Offices can only promise so much through their bio and service pages. The patient testimonials are the additional source you need to know all the details about your potential dentist.
Reviews will answer any question still lingering in your mind like the ease of making an appointment to the integrity with which patients are treated. Positive reviews are a sign of good faith. They can calm your nerves about visiting a new office and tell you what to expect.
5. Double Check the Dental Office Schedule
Before you pick up the phone and make an appointment, check the operating hours!
Some offices will offer early or weekend appointments to make scheduling easier.
This can be a huge help to parents busy with carpooling and after-school activities. It’s also nice to know you can get an appointment without having to take sick time from the office.
More Health Services
Finding a new dental office is just one piece of the healthcare puzzle.
No matter your reason for switching providers, the tips above can be helpful when choosing a family doctor or even a specialist.
For more health service tips and tricks to find the perfect match, read our blog.