By Dr. Doyle Williams
All too often we hear from patients that they haven’t been to the dentist in years because they weren’t able to find one they liked or trusted.
Finding the right dentist can be hard, but it’s a crucial step towards good oral health.First, comfort plays an essential role in finding the right dentist. It’s important that a dentist makes you feel at ease so you can ask questions about your care and you trust the dentist to perform procedures.
This is especially important when looking for a pediatric dentist. If children develop good dental habits when they’re young, they’re more likely to continue to practice good oral health later in life.
You will find dentists are either a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) or DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery). Both apply to general dentists and refer to the same training programs.
Convenience is also an important part of choosing the right dentist. If you choose a dentist who has office hours that are compatible with yours and whose location is convenient, it will be easier to make and keep appointments. For example, in Massachusetts, DentaQuest’s Oral Health Center, our model dental office, has extended hours and a staff of general dentists, pediatric dentists, periodontists, endodontists and orthodontists.
Choosing a dentist who will understand your dental benefits is also important. Check your dental benefits company’s website to find the right dentist for you in their network.
Dental diseases are almost 100% preventable; having a good dentist who is experienced in preventive care is important. If you work together with your dentist and make regular appointments, you can maintain excellent oral health.