When looking for a new dentist...what do you ask?
By twilight021
@twilight021 (2059)
United States
March 12, 2007 2:30pm CST
I have horrible teeth. They look great on the surface and in the front, but the back ones....we'll lets say I'm surprised I don't set off metal detectors with all my fillings.
I am lucky enough to have dental insurance through my work, and I just found out that my current dentist is not included in the plan that gives the biggest discount...so even though I like him, I'm thinking about switching.
When you are looking for/interviewing a potential dentist, what types of questions do you ask?
2 responses
@krebstar5 (1266)
• United States
12 Mar 07
I know this sounds funny, but I ask about pain. If a friend if referring me, I ask if the dentist has ever hurt them. I also ask abotu how comfortable the dentist makes them. You see, I like my dentists quiet but also really gentle. My current dentist is just that. He doesn't try to talk to me when he has instruments in my mouth, but when he does talk be has a very gentle manner. He also asks me about my other health issues (because Dentists should really know about health issues you might have), and never forgets to stop and ask me if I have any questions. My office also sends out a newsletter about oral health.
When interviewing a new doctor you hould ask about teh services he/she provides. for instance, if you want metal fillings, can you get them? You can also ask them what they do about nervous patients. I asked that when I got my dentist and I was told that they give you headphones and a tv on the ceiling to help you relax. It was really nice that they were concerned with those sorts of things.
@twilight021 (2059)
• United States
12 Mar 07
Wow..That sounds fancy! Headphones and everything.
Right now my main questions were "Do you take my insurance". But asking about pain it a good thing to think about it. I've had so much dental work...and some of it pretty unpleasant (ask my sister about the time I got a crow seated without any novicaine-afterwards, I was giddy from all the pain) that I didn't even think about aking it more comfortable...I just figured unpleasant dentist visitis are a fact of life.
Even though I floss, brush and use a floride rinse...I think I just have weak teeth.
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
13 Mar 07
I don't think there's anything to be found out from the dentist.
The best way to find the best dentist is by word of mouth. Ask around - your friends, colleagues, etc.. the clients' testimonials are often the best bet when deciding such things.
A less effective but still okay alternative would be to get the receptionist/assistant. From how they say and what they say, clues can be gotten whether the dentist is good. ;-)
