Going to the dentist is one of the best things you can do to improve your overall health. It’s estimated that one-quarter of adults have untreated tooth decay, and nearly half of adults are suffering from untreated periodontal disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss. When left untreated, these issues can cause major health problems. Your dentist can also identify warning signs of other conditions at your regular checkup, including diabetes, oral cancer, and heart disease.
If you don’t have a family dentist, you might be wondering how to find the best dentist in your area. Here are some tips to help you with your search.
Start With Online Reviews
The easiest way to find the best dentist is to look through online reviews. Whether it’s on Google, Yelp, or the dentist’s own website, reviews from actual patients can give you great insight into the office atmosphere, staff’s personality, and the care provided by the dentist. As you’re reading through the reviews, take note of these things:
- Are they conveniently located near your home or workplace?
- Do they offer flexible appointment times or extended hours during the evening or on weekends?
- Does the dentist offer any special dental services, like cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign, or treatment of periodontal disease?
- Does the office accept your dental insurance?
- Can they treat your whole family?
Once you have a good understanding of the dental offices in your area, it’ll be easier to make your decision about the best dentists to treat your family.
Schedule a Consultation
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices for the best dentists, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation. Many offices offer free consultations to discuss your dentistry needs. This is a great opportunity for you to experience the dental practice first hand, get a feel for the office environment and interact with the staff. They can answer any of your questions and give you recommendations for different treatment options. If you feel comfortable with the office and staff, you can move forward with making an appointment. If you don’t think the office is a good fit, you can simply schedule consultations at other local dental practices until you find the best dentists for your family.
Ask Family and Friends
Besides looking for reviews online, your friends, family, and coworkers can be another great resource to find the best dentists in your area. Ask the people you trust who they’d recommend and why. Do you know anyone who’s had extensive dental work done? Or someone with a smile you’ve always admired? Don’t be shy to ask them which dental practice they go to! Most people are happy to share their experiences, good and bad. Sometimes, dental practices will even offer a reward for referring new patients, so you could be helping your friends or family while also finding the best dentists.
Use the Resources Around You
When it comes to trying to find the best dentists around you, there are quite a few resources available. From asking family and friends to scouring online reviews, there’s a good bit of information available to help you make your decision. Perhaps the best way to determine the best dentists for you is to visit their office for a consultation. With these tips, you’re sure to find the right local dentist for your family’s needs. If you’re looking for a reputable, trusted, and friendly Mercer Island dentist, contact us at Thomas Dentistry today!
