Going to the dentist can be intimidating for a lot of people, and it’s even more intimidating if you don’t have a dentist you know and trust. Whether you just moved to a new area, your old dentist retired, or you’re simply looking for a better option, we can help!
Keep reading for our go-to guide for finding a family dental practice you can feel good about.
What to Look for in a Dentist
For starters, there are some foundational questions that need answering that will help whittle down your options. Ask yourself how far you’re willing to drive and what office hours will best suit your schedule, and take note of your dental insurance provider and plan. After you have those things in mind, it’s time to look a little more closely at your remaining options!
#1: Google Reviews
The first thing you’ll probably notice when searching something like “dentist near me” are Google reviews for various dental offices. These can be a great way to get an overall feel for how those dentists are perceived by current or past clients. Remember to take reviews with a grain of salt, however, as unhappy people are usually much louder than happy people. Read the reviews carefully and pay close attention when things that are important to you are mentioned.
#2: Quality of Care
Now it’s time to share some insider knowledge that will help determine what dentists are truly doing what’s best for you, and what dentists are slacking.
First, how long do their dental cleanings take? You could either try out a dentist and see for yourself, or save a trip and ask over the phone. Unless the patient is a child, dental cleanings should never take less than 15 minutes. If they do, then there’s a good chance that the dentist or dental hygienist isn’t taking their time with your teeth.
Next up, ask about routine periodontal charts. This is where your dentist checks your gums and measures the bone levels around your teeth. If they don’t check these things during your checkup, that could be a red flag!
Lastly, ask your dentist about X-rays. Most dentists will remind you that dental X-rays are covered by insurance, but be wary of dentists who will use this to convince you to get more X-rays than necessary. Unless you have a specific issue that needs closer monitoring, you should expect to get X-rays of your entire mouth every three to five years. More than that, and you could be looking at a red flag.
Looking for a Family Dental Practice?
When it comes to quality of care, no one beats LeCroy Dental. We have a five-star rating on Google, a comfortable family atmosphere, and a convenient online patient portal you can access anytime. We know that going to the dentist can be stressful—that’s why James LeCroy DMD takes a gentle approach, easing patients’ concerns and tailoring treatments to their specific needs.
Ready for your checkup? Get in touch with LeCroy Dental today to book an appointment. We look forward to serving you!