7 Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Dentist

by MarcW | Mar 24, 2017 | Dental Health

Finding a dentist can be a daunting task. Although it’s always good to try and stay with a dentist you are comfortable with – sometimes unforeseen circumstances, such as moving or a switch in insurance companies requires a change. Reaching out to friends and neighbors in your area can be extremely helpful as you begin your search for a new Greenville dentist, in addition to reading online reviews. Once you have located one you are comfortable with – below are seven key questions to ask during your dental consultation.

What Are Your Certifications?

Don’t worry about offending the dentist with this question. All dentists are required by law to be certified to practice dentistry. However, some dentists have more certifications than others. Knowing their level of expertise and experience will give you a better understanding on the treatments they can provide in-office. You may find that having a dentist that can provide pediatric dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and restorative dentistry all under the same roof a huge plus.

What Are Your Office Hours?

Life gets busy with work, school, and juggling all the sports and family obligations. Having a dental practice that is nearby with office hours that fit within your schedule will reduce your stress levels and make dental care more convenient.

Do You Offer Emergency Dental Services?

Dental emergencies are a part of life – and having a dentist easily accessible when you need one is important, especially if you have children. Ask your dentist if they have an emergency phone number and how soon they are able to schedule an appointment if a dental emergency occurs after hours. Knowing proper protocols to follow in advance will provide peace of mind.

Do You Participate in Ongoing Education?

This question will give you a better understanding on how up-to-date they are on the latest dental treatments. A dentist that participates in dental seminars and education courses has a greater chance of offering the highest quality dental technologies and techniques available in the industry. In addition, a dentist that is continually learning will provide you with more comfortable and comprehensive care.

Do You Accept Insurance and Offer Additional Financing Options?

Although most dental practices accept insurance – they may not accept all insurances. This is an important question to ask the receptionist before scheduling your appointment so there are no surprises when it comes time to pay. Thanks to financial services, such as CareCredit and LendingClub, many dentists today also provide in-house financing options and payment plans to help you manage your cost of care. Delaying care due to lack of funds can lead to costly restorative procedures in the future.

What Preventative Dentistry Services Do You Provide?

Preventative care is crucial to managing a healthy smile and extending the longevity of your natural teeth. Ask your dentist what type of care you can expect to receive during a routine dental cleaning and examination. Does he or she administer digital x-rays every six months to check the health of your teeth and jawbone? Does he or she provide dental sealants and fluoride treatments as a means for preventing cavities? Does he or she perform oral cancer screenings? If a dentist places great importance on preventative care, they are more likely to help you maintain your smile and avoid costly and complex restorative procedures.

Do You Treat Children?

Finding a dentist who can treat patients of all ages makes receiving dental care convenient for the entire family. Ask how soon your child can start visiting the dentist and what types of amenities they offer for children. A dentist who specializes in pediatric dentistry will make visiting the dentist a fun and relaxing experience for your child and get them started on a healthy oral health journey.

Looking For a New Greenville, SC Dentist?

If you are looking for a dependable dentist in the Greenville, SC area, our team of professional, friendly, and trustworthy dentists at Carolina Oaks Dental Care of Greenville, can provide the care you need for your entire family. We look forward to meeting you and serving you for many years. Contact our practice online or by calling 864-235-3949 to schedule your consultation.