How to Find a Family Dentist

Dental care is essential for the whole family. It can, however, cost a lot, especially if each individual in your family is seeing a different dentist. So what is the best option? It is best to have a family dentist to look after the entire family’s dental needs. When you have only one dentist to attend to all members of your family, the relationship with your dentist becomes more personal. You are even more likely to get better service, and sometimes at a better price. To find a family dentist that your whole family can trust, you will need to consider some important things. Consider the dentist’s reputation, personality and location as well as their values.

We tend to find dentists based on recommendations from our family, friends, office mates and neighbors as well as from our doctor or previous dentist. Regardless of whether or not you get recommendations from others it is also a good idea to perform your own research online.

Do a background check

You could visit the American Dental Association’s website to see if there are members who have an office or clinic in your area. Take a look at each dentist’s profile, and gradually narrow down your list based on your family’s preferences. With helpful information from this website you will almost certainly come up with an idea of who to choose. You can also check the educational background of the dentists that you are considering. Are they continuing with further studies, seminars or workshops while they practice?

You can also call the office or clinic of those dentists on your list, and have a little chat with the receptionist in order to gather relevant information. Based on this chat you can get a feel for their practice, and narrow down your list even further. A receptionist or secretary must always be friendly, accommodating and respectful and eager to provide answers to all your questions and concerns.

You can inquire about the professional fees and payment terms available. You can also verify which procedures are covered by insurance. You need to make sure all of your financial concerns are answered properly before making an appointment in order to avoid any inconveniences. It is best that you be informed regarding the fees that apply to you.

What about payment methods?

Inquire about payment methods, as they may vary from one dentist to the next. While some dentists will bill your insurance company directly, others may charge you upfront. You, then, would be the one to claim the expense from your insurance company. Make sure these concerns are addressed before making an appointment. For those who do not have any insurance and are on a budget, ask for alternative payment plans.

It is important that you are comfortable with your dentist and their clinic. If you are feeling uneasy, it is probably best to keep looking. Likewise, it is also important that your dentist is available for emergency cases, or can assign someone to attend to you or any member of your family when the need arises.

Doing your research is a great way of ensuring your family’s needs and safety.