Finding the perfect dentist for the newest member of your family can be tough, especially if you have just moved the family across the country. Go online and you will see dozens of dentists in your area, but how do you know where to start? Pediatric Dentistry is a specialty, and if you don’t know anyone in the area and forgot to ask your old dentist for a recommendation, don’t panic.
Head to the web and do a search for dentists. Type in your city and zip code. If you are searching for a pediatric dentist on Google, include infant, toddler, or teen in the city name search. Once you have found a few suitable dentists in your new community start a list. Be sure to highlight the things you liked about the dentist and number your list in order of preference.
Check your list against the online review sites and see how each dentist ranks. Honest reviews are important, especially if you do not have any personal recommendations. If the reviews are mixed, keep looking. You want to find a dentist who ranks consistently with at least four stars.
Go through each dentist’s website with a fine tooth comb. Read the products and services page and don’t forget to check the dental teams about us page. You’ll want to find a dentist who provides you with his or her training and schooling and one who is continually furthering his or her dental education with classes, seminars and workshops.
The interior of the dentist’s office should be clean, comfortable, and inviting. Kids need to be kept busy, especially if they have had a bad experience with a dentist. First timers will appreciate games that will keep busy minds occupied before they meet with the pediatric dentist. A good pediatric dentist will have educational toys for the kids, updated magazines, and a television for you.
Call ahead. If you have narrowed down your search to three final candidates, call the office. Talk to the receptionist and see what kind of vibe you get. If your call was answered with a friendly hello and how can I help you, you are on the right track.
Ask questions. If the office is only open 3 days a week, you may want to rethink your number one choice. Fees, insurance plans, and payment options need to be discussed before you book a dental appointment as well.
Accidents happen and if your son has a dental emergency on the baseball field, it is vital that you have a pediatric dentist who is available 24 hours 7 days a week. Most dentists have a referral dentist whom they trust in the event of a dental emergency.
Trust your instincts. If you have a good feeling about a new dentist, schedule an appointment. You’ll know if the two of you are a good fit the first time you or any member of your family sits in the chair.
