Whether you’re new to the Central Coast or just interested in finding a practice that’s a better fit for your family’s needs, the hunt for the right dentist can seem a little overwhelming.
To complicate things further, a number of people have also had poor experiences in their past, which can leave them feeling even more nervous about approaching somewhere new.
If you know this feeling: rest assured that you’re not alone, and that there are a number of steps you can take to ensure your new practice is the perfect fit – starting with our 5 tips to help you choose the right dentist for your family.
1. Do your research
You should begin by compiling a list of dentists that you’re interested in visiting, or that are in your local area.
Next, you’ll need to research, research, and research some more: check Facebook profiles, Google reviews, Instagram pages and other sources that will tell you what each practice’s current patients are thinking.
The next time you’re in a community spot – whether it’s the café, doctor’s office, the school canteen or the post office – try to chat to others about their recommendations. There’s nothing like local knowledge to give you the whole truth, and nothing but the truth!
Remember: the online world is also a fact-finder’s best friend. There are lots of online Facebook groups set up specifically for individuals to chat about their suburb or local area, so jump on to see if any of your nearly-neighbours have recommendations.
Lastly, it’s important to check the credentials of all dentists you’re considering, including their skills, practice, experience and certifications.
2. Consider the overall experience
No one knows your needs better than you, the potential patient. You might like to ask yourself:
A) Would I prefer a female or male dentist?
B) Am I looking for someone with a no-holds-barred, give-it-to-me-straight attitude, or do I need a gentler approach to ease me back into dental care?
C) Is it important to me that my new dentist have up-to-date equipment, or an architecturally-designed, custom-created building?
D) What’s most important to me when it comes to an appointment? Is it how well I get along with the dentist, how comfortable I feel in the environment, how empowered I feel in the decision-making process, or whether my concerns are being addressed?
Once you’ve answered some of these questions, you might find it easier to narrow down the sort of practice that will best suit you.
3. Observe how they communicate
If you’re a nervous patient, or you’ve got little kids who will soon be heading in for their first dentist appointment, the attitude and approach of your potential healthcare professional will be of even more importance.
The first time you meet your potential new dentist, try to ask them some questions about their past procedures, any complications, their attitude to nervous patients, their experience with children, or your role in the decision-making process.
Take note of their answers. The right dentist will have time to comfortably address every concern you raise and speak in a way that make sense to you as the patient.
4. See what kind of services they offer
If you’ve got young children, your family will really benefit from a practitioner who has extensive experience in making kids feel comfortable, safe and empowered when it comes to their dental hygiene.
If this isn’t an issue for you, you might be more interested in a dentist who offers after-hours care that suits your work schedule, or that is easy accessible with appropriate parking.
If you’re an older patient, look into their approach to common issues like dentures.
Overall, no matter what your needs or the kind of dentist you’re looking for, you’ll want to them to have an individualised approach and ensure you receive a treatment plan that’s personalised for you.
5. Pay them a visit, and see how you feel
There’s nothing like the lived experience to really solidify how you feel about the practice.
Once you’ve narrowed down your shortlist, book an appointment and have a chat to the dentist about your dental history, concerns, or any treatments you’re hoping to explore.
When the appointment is over, take a critical look of how it made you feel.
Was everyone friendly and approachable? Did you feel like you were being heard? Was the environment hygienic, clean and comfortable? Did they talk to you in a way that was clear and comprehensive?
Sometimes, the ‘vibe’ of a place is all you need to experience to know if you’re in good hands.
Looking for a dental practice that has the best equipment, knowledgeable dentists, and a calm, empowering atmosphere?
Look no further than the team at Renwick Dental.
With practices in Wyoming and Ourimbah, we’re excited to welcome new clients from across the Coast.
Book your first appointment today: renwickdental.com.au
Keep smiling,
The Renwick Dental Team.
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