Finding the perfect dentist can be a challenge. Not all dentists are the same and we certainly don’t all carry the same dental needs. When you are looking for the perfect dentist, it is important to consider a variety of dental opinions and professional resources.
Dentist locator networks are a great way to find a new dentist. While most dental locator networks are established under an affiliate network arrangement, you can certainly not expect them to provide unbiased information about the dentists in your area. However, with a dentist locator network, you can narrow down dentists by those who are closest to your home or place of employment, and even view information about their credentials and office details.
In addition to dentist locator networks, another great source of finding a good dentist is using the agency that provides dental licensure – the American Dental Association. When visiting the ADA’s website, you can do a quick search for a dentist by name and find information on not only their credentials and licensing but also obtain information about the dentist’s affiliations and an overview of complaints, fines, and suspensions against their licensure.
A good dentist may also be found by looking through the list of preferred providers made available by your dental insurance plan. Since most dental insurance plans operate as a PPO or DMO, dental managed plan, it is highly likely that your dental insurance plan will have a list of dentists for you to choose from. While this certainly doesn’t guarantee you will find a good dentist for you, it can give you a foundation on which to begin narrowing the names of dentists in your area.
Family and friends can usually recommend a good dentist in your area. In fact, many dentists rely on word-of-mouth marketing brought upon by their own patients. Ask your family and friends, especially ask those individuals who may have similar health and dental needs as your own and someone you trust to give you a recommendation based upon their outcome and not based upon any monetary incentive.
And, finally, ask your own doctor for a dentist recommendation. Because our physical health is so closely tied to our oral health, your doctor undoubtedly knows of a great dentist in your area. If you trust your doctor with your physical health, and in making referrals for your medical treatment, then ask about any recommendations the doctor may have for a dentist in your area. Doctors often know who the best dental associates are.
By combining these five elements of search, you can find a good dentist in your area and feel more assured that the dentist you opt to see comes with the approval of more than one source. Finding a dentist you feel comfortable with is the first step in alleviating unnecessary costs and unnecessary feelings of anxiety as your head in for your first dental visit.
Sources: Journal of Oral Health, 17:176-184. The American Dentist, May 2005
