When I was six years old, I needed to have a tooth pulled. The dentist had my father leave the room, then, as I kicked and screamed and fought, he proceeded to restrain me with one hand, while he held a black anesthesia mask over my face with the other. I woke up with a mouth full of bloody gauze and an intense fear of dentists. For many people, finding a good dentist is a hard task because of past bad experiences. I often tell people that I’d rather give birth than go to the dentist. Since I have seven kids, born naturally, I know from which I speak.
I also know that it is possible to find a great dentist, and while I am largely over my phobia, I would have no compunction about switching dentists if I felt that the one I was seeing did not meet my needs. Here are the five ways that I know that I have found a good dentist.
A Good Dentist Listens
Since many people have had traumatic experiences, a good dentist listens to his client. He or she takes the time to get to know about your medical and dental history, including asking about any past bad experiences. He asks questions to better understand your needs, and he is genuinely wants to provide you with the best care, and experience, possible.
A Good Dentist Explains Things
For people with a history of trauma during a dental procedure, knowing what is going to happen in advance of a procedure can remove a lot of fear. She will take the time to explain any procedures, including telling you how pain will be managed, what noises you may hear, what tools will be used, and what you can expect afterward. A good dentist takes the time answer any questions you might have.
A Good Dentist Is Compassionate
A good dentist will not diminish any fears that you may have, nor will he ignore any possible concerns. He will do his best to help alleviate your fears in an understanding manner.
A Good Dentist Has a Good Staff
Since you will spend more time with the dental hygienist than the dentist at many visits, a good dentist makes certain that he has a top notch staff. He will hire caring, competent, and compassionate people to work with you.
A Good Dentist Will Help You Heal
A good dentist will do everything in her power to make certain that you heal, not only from your procedure, but from your past. She will nurture you as you come to trust in her ability, caring about your personal experience as much as she cares about your teeth.
A good dentist is worth his weight in gold teeth. Ask friends you trust for recommendations, and remember that, since you are paying him, you are the boss. If you do not feel at home with one dentist, keep looking until you find a good fit so that you are not left worrying about good fitting dentures in the future.
Conquer Your Fear of the Dentist
http://www.saveyoursmile.com
