Good oral hygiene is not only a health issue – it is a quality of life issue. A sparkling and healthy-looking smile makes social interactions that much easier and can also have a direct influence on our careers – and regular visits to a dental practice can help maintain that smile – and also help when we are in pain or faced with other oral issues that can negatively impact your life and the lives of your loved ones.
However, a quick Internet search will, in all probability reveal that there are numerous local dental practices in your part of Indianapolis – and the challenge of finding the right one can sometimes become a little overwhelming.
However, by doing some simple research and taking into account a variety of factors, that search can be simplified. Here are some hints and tips to ensure that you make the right decision when it comes to choosing a dentist for you and your family.
The first step to finding the ideal dental practice is to source referrals. It may be tempting to simply read the referrals on a service provider’s website – however sometimes (not all the time) those referrals are the product of a marketing or public relations person.
The best way to get great referrals is to ask family and friends (or in a pinch co-workers). These are people that you interact with every day – and they can be trusted. Once you’ve narrowed down your list, call the practice and ask for a consult appointment where you can interview the dentist to find out if they best suit your needs.
However, how do you identify which of those dentists suits your unique requirements? The practice website should have information on each of their dentists, their qualifications, how long they have been practicing, and areas of specialty.
If you or a member of your family have specific needs (such as orthodontics and endodontics, or you have very young children) make sure that you select the right dentist.
Remember to do some research on the credentials of the dentist that will be providing the service. Of course, the most important factor to consider is if they are Board-certified, but also make sure that their track record is beyond reproach.
There are several websites that will provide you with information on a dentist’s history (healthgrades.com is only one) and, perhaps as important if they have been sued for malpractice at any point.
In this day and age where gender equality is the focus of much discussion, it is often forgotten that when it comes to medical procedures there is an enormous difference in the way that a medical (or in this case dental) practitioner interacts with his or her patients.
Take into account the gender of the professional that you will be dealing with. It is incredibly important that you feel comfortable discussing health issues, as well as feeling comfortable with their communication style.
Some simple research will ensure that your choice of Indianapolis dentistry provider is the right one for you and your family. By making the right choice you will enjoy a better quality of life.
