Whether you’re new to the area or just looking for a new dentist, choosing the right practice for yourself and your family can be an intimidating process. It’s important to know that not all dentists will be a good fit. At my dental office in Buckhead, we’d like to fill you in on some key questions to ask to make sure you make the right choice for your particular dental needs.
The first step to finding the best dentist in Buckhead for your family is to do a bit of research. Ask friends and family who they see and create a list of preliminary practices you’ll want to contact. Then, pick up the phone, make some calls, and start asking questions.
What Should I Expect During My First Visit?
This should be one of the first questions you ask your potential dental office. The answer you receive should always include a conversation with the dentist so he or she can get to know about not just your health and dental histories, but also who you are and what your goals are for your oral health and your smile. One of the most important services you deserve is a true understanding of the present condition of your oral health so you can make decisions that are best for you. Your first visit should include a thorough examination of your whole system – everything that is involved in allowing you to eat, speak, and smile. This includes your muscles and jaw joints as well as your teeth, gums, and bone support. For this to happen effectively you should expect to spend a lot of time with the doctor. It cannot happened in a 5-10 minute “cavity count exam” after you get your teeth cleaned.
How Does the Dentist Keep Up With New Technology or Training?
Dentists, as well as their staff, typically attend several continuing education courses, seminars, and trade shows to learn new things about dentistry and keep up with the latest technology. Your new dentist should be involved in some ongoing continuing education.
What Type of Experience Does the Dentist Have in Treating Comprehensively?
You should be able to see from the dentist’s website examples of before and after treatment. If there are no photos of their work or it says this section “coming in the future”, it is probably not a good sign. Also if there are cases to see, make sure the results are individualized and natural and do not look fake or all the same. Testimonials from their patients should also attest to different types of services needed from cosmetic to TMJ to general needs.
Once you think you’re ready to make a commitment to one of the dentists you called, it’s a good idea to make an initial appointment and use that visit as a ‘test’ to make sure you’re comfortable, you’re treated well, and that the office is the environment that fits you.
Of course, if you’d like to visit my Buckhead dental office, we always welcome you to call. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Serving patients in Buckhead, Atlanta, and Sandy Springs.