Choosing a dentist is an important decision and deserves as much time and dedication as you would put towards finding a doctor or, heck, your YouTube browsing.  The point here is that you need to remember that finding a dentist is going to be easy, but finding the right dentist is going to take some more online detective work and some extra time.  Don’t worry, though, it’ll all be worth it when you find the right one that is going to blend perfectly with your needs while giving you quality care that just can’t be beat.  Here are some things to look for on your hunt.

The dentist

The dentist who runs the clinic is going to be the person who is under the most scrutiny when you read up on a clinic, so it’s important to make sure that this person passes your test in terms of the requirements and the traits that s/he can give off.  These are great examples of things to check out online or by calling up the clinic and asking these questions.

• What are his/her qualifications?: Dentists are required to have certain qualifications, of course, but you can ask about any kind of additional ones or interesting ones that you think would distinguish them above the norm. This is a great way to get additional information on the dentist in a professional sense that you can record to compare to others.
• What are his/her specialities?: Each dentist approaches a practice different in terms of their special details that make them unique. One may be fantastic with kids, for example, whereas another may be superior at dealing with those who have disabilities, etc.  Know what each dentist can offer in specialties and you’ll be properly equipped to know whether one is better for you and your family instead of another.
• How does s/he review online from other clients?: If you like to research online, take a look at the reviews from other clients (current as well as former ones) and see what they have to say. Read negative and positive reviews, and form your own opinion based on what you read.  It’s important to remember that this should not be your only research option, but it is important to take a look at it.

The office

You’ll have certain expectations for the physical location and atmosphere of the office, so take note of these on your first visit and it’ll help determine whether you go back for a future one or not.

• Is is conveniently located?: Whether it’s close to home or work, it should be in a spot that is easy to get to for you and your family. For example, If you live in Oakville, then start by looking for a dentist in Oakville close to your house or work.
• Is it clean and organized?: If the hygienists or administrative employees can’t find things (or it’s cluttered), it’s a sign that it isn’t well cared for, meaning it might not be the best option for you if this is particularly important to you.
• Does it run on schedule (give or take a few minutes)?: It’s normal for dentists to be running behind once in a while by five to ten minutes, but if it’s late by, say, half an hour or longer, it could be a sign that you should be going to a different one. No one wants to waste that much time and it will deter you from coming back.
• Do you feel well-treated?: This is obvious, but also important to remember. If you feel rushed or like you are being ignored, it won’t give you a good experience, like the right dentist should.

Financials

Details, maybe, but important.  Here are  few things to ask and/or look at online before or after your first appointment.

• Do they offer direct-billing?
• Are they priced competitively?

These helping hands will offer support in making sure that you are looking at all of the important features on your dentist search.  You can also ask friends and family for recommendations and then use that to base your search online.

Remember, too, that just because you have an introductory meeting at a clinic doesn’t mean that you have to stay there.  The point is to find a place that is going to make you feel welcome, and a dentist that is going to be able to give you the service and the care that you deserve as a paying customer and client.  Don’t settle for what’s convenient, find the right fit for you and your loved ones.  You might not think it’s important to find one that matches with what you’re looking for in all elements, but if you happen to luck into finding the right one at some point, you’ll see that the difference so clearly that you’ll wonder why you ever lasted with the previous one.

We all might be looking for something different, but choosing the right dentist can be done by using these observations, questions and tips to help you along in your research.

If you are looking for a dentist in Oakville, please contact us at 905 4650026 to book your appointment today