How To Choose A Family Dentist

It is generally recognized that over 46% of consumers do not have a family dentist. Therefore, the Academy of General Dentistry has developed a list of recommendations to guide consumers in choosing their Virginia family dentist.

1. Find Out From Your Immediate Surroundings.

• Ask your friends, family members living in your area and co-workers to give you the name of their dentist. If you have simply moved to a new area, contact local or national dental associations to obtain the name of a dentist practicing in your community.
• The Academy of General Dentistry in Chicago can also refer you. The Academy of General Dentistry members has set themselves the goal of continuing education to provide patients with the best possible care and remain at the forefront of the latest trends in dentistry.
• "The best way to choose a dentist is to ask around," says Dr. Omer Akmal, DDS, FAGD, and vice president of the Academy of General Dentistry. "Friends and colleagues will put you in touch with someone (a dentist) they trust, with whom they feel comfortable and whose services are satisfactory."

Ask For A Consultation

If you are nervous or unsure, seek a consultation with the dentist. Ask to see the dental office. Most dentists are happy to discuss treatment options and plans with prospective patients. The dentist and his patient must establish a good relationship from the start.

This meeting can also be an opportunity to discuss insurance coverage, billing method and payment terms.

"Consultation visits are very important," adds Dr. Omer Akmal. "It's an opportunity for the patient to ask questions that will establish a climate where they feel comfortable."

 

Check The Dentist's Credentials And Knowledge

Find out if this dentist is part of an organized dentistry group at the local dental society or the Academy of General Dentistry. Continuing education is crucial in dentistry because technology is constantly developing. Therefore, your dentist must know current trends and techniques in the dental field.

Academy of General Dentistry members must complete at least 75 hours of continuing education courses per three-year period. This is one of the conditions required to remain a member of the Academy. However, most of them take more hours of training than the minimum required.

 

1. Start With A Simple Intervention

 

After the consultation, make an appointment for simple cleaning. Take advantage of this second visit to assess the general atmosphere. Is the staff rigorous in the application of techniques and the administration of treatments? Do employees value the quality of care? Do you find them easy to approach? Do they spend enough time with you to answer all your questions? Do you feel important to them? Are they flexible with your availability and schedule?

 

2. Be Comfortable

It is essential that the patient feels comfortable with the dentist and his staff. If your first visit is positive, you have a good indication that this firm meets your needs. Open communication is the key to good dental hygiene and a good dentist-patient relationship. You must communicate to your dentist in Arlington, VA, both your concerns and your satisfaction.