10 Tips to Find a Good Dentist

Quebec has about 4000 dentists. You have a choice… but how do you make the right one? Here are 10 criteria to help you find a professional who will meet your needs.

1. Education and Accreditations

The dentist’s diplomas can give you a good idea of his qualifications and titles acquired over the years. Dental professionals are required by their professional associations to take continuing education courses (about five days a year). The professionals can also earn the honorary titles of fellowship, mastership, diplomat and other, attesting to their expertise. Find this out from the receptionist, or take a look at the diplomas on the clinic walls.

2. Specialized or Broad Experience

Are you seeking a particular treatment or a comprehensive range of dental services? In the first case, find a dentist who has done many procedures like the one you are contemplating. Make sure he can optimize both the quality and durability of his work as well as your comfort. But if you are looking for a clinic to meet all your dental needs, opt for a clinic with several dentists. By selecting a multidisciplinary clinic, you have access to a one-stop shop for the best services.

3. New Technologies

Does the dentist use the latest materials, procedures and technological devices to provide you with the best possible care? Dental equipment is expensive and it is to a dentist’s advantage to use it for many years. However, there have been considerable advances in technology in the dental field over the past five years – make sure the dentist makes good use of it.

4. Empathy and Communication

Make sure the dentist is tuned into your wishes. Does he take the time to understand your needs and concerns, and also to propose and explain the various procedures? If you have questions before and after your treatment, can someone answer them quickly? Are the dentist and his team courteous, and above all, do they really take your health to heart?

5. Clinic Cleanliness

Is the clinic clean? Can staff answer your questions about hygiene? Are all the instruments sterile? Do the professionals wear gloves and face masks? Are you given the option of wearing protective goggles?

6. Clinic Layout

Are staff and the decor warm and welcoming? Do they inspire trust? Is the waiting room comfortable? Do you have access to a computer, magazines, coffee…

7. Clinic Location

Are access and parking easy for you? Having shops and services in the neighbourhood can make a visit to your dentist more pleasant and constructive.

8. Financial Considerations

Has the clinic staff explained the treatment options and related fees? Will you be informed if the estimate varies for any reason? Are financing options available?

9. Respect

Do the dentist and his team recognize that your time is valuable? Do they give you an appointment to accommodate your schedule? Does staff respect its commitments?

10. Recommendations

Ask your friends, neighbours, colleagues or doctor to recommend an excellent dentist.

When you select a dentist, and above a dental esthetics professional, you are choosing someone who will change the appearance of your teeth, your smile and often your face. Making the right choice is therefore important… especially since many treatments are irreversible.

Considering the growing popularity of esthetic procedures, the many dentists who claim to be experts and new technologies that have revolutionized the practice, it can be hard to make the right choice. So take the time to evaluate these 10 criteria, visit a few clinics and get a few treatment plans. If you select the best professional for your needs, you will be proud you have taken these initiatives, and especially proud of the results.

 

Publié dans : LA DENTISTERIE