A Great Dentist! Tips For Getting One!

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. However, the thoughts and opinions below are my own.

I’ve been in the market for a new dentist for awhile now.  We moved some time ago and because it wasn’t THAT far away, I continued to see my old dentist, where I used to live.  But that proved to be time consuming and I found that it was too easy to put my dental visits off because, well, the dentist isn’t my most favorite place to spend my time!  I can rationalize not going to get my teeth worked on in favor of so many other things.  

 In my search for the perfect dentist, I found and used a few tips for finding a good dentist that I thought I’d share, so you won't put it off like I did for so long!  My teeth paid a price!

Waiting for my exam and cleaning

 Tips For Finding A Great Dentist

·    First of all, As a new patient, you should receive an inspection of the teeth, gums, tongue, lips, inside of the cheek and palate at the minimum.  With adults, a periodontal probe should be inserted between the gums and teeth to detect abnormally large crevices. Good dentists also chart their findings in detail.

·        Be wary of flamboyant advertising-- it is likely to signify an emphasis on mass production rather than quality.

·        Friends and family members are a great resource. They can tell you about the personality of the dentist and office staff, and answer questions. Here are some things to consider with them:

1.     How well does the dentist explain treatment options?

2.     How long do you have to sit in the waiting room?

3.     Do you feel comfortable asking questions?

4.     What is the environment provided?

5.     How does the office handle emergencies?

6.     How long do you have to wait for an appointment?

7.     How are bills handled?

8.     What is the location of the office?

9.     Charges for each treatment?

·        Other Places To Call:

1.     Your dental insurance company — Your insurer will provide names and contact information for dentists in your area who take part in the company's dental plans. Usually you will have to pay a lower fee if you use these dentists. Your insurer also may have other information, such as whether the dentist accepts new patients.

2.     Your state's dental association — Each state has a dental association that can provide names of dentists who are members of the American Dental Association (ADA). ADA membership is voluntary. Most dentists are members. However, ADA membership does not mean a higher quality of care.

3.     Your local hospital – Some hospitals have their own dental clinics, or can recommend local dentists.

4.     The nearest dental school —A dental school in your area can be a great resource. Most dental schools have clinics that accept new patients. The care given at these clinics is excellent. The cost is often lower than visiting a private-practice dentist. Usually, routine care at a dental school clinic is provided by dental students and residents (dentists who are completing advanced training). They are supervised by dentists who teach at the dental school. For complicated and newer procedures, these clinics offer state-of-the-art care. Check our list of dental schools in the United States and Canada to see if there's one near you.

I think I’ve finally found a great dental group in my area!  It’s called Platinum Dental Care!  It's one of 5 dental offices with Platinum Care Dental Group around Utah Valley and Northern Utah! 

 I was referred to them through some other Utah Bloggers that are in the know and I decided to give them a try.  The time spent in the waiting room was very minimal, but the time I did spend there was spent looking back at some very beautiful smiles on the wall.  

 They gave me an initial exam along with a cleaning.  I found them to be very personable and friendly.  My dentist was very professional and answered all of my questions thoroughly.  

My dentist and Cara, the hygienest

 I loved both of the hygienists.  I actually had two appointments, the first one was the exam and the second one was the cleaning.  So I got to be with two hygienists and really liked them both.  I found the exam to be informative and thorough ( I liked how Cara used the periodontal probe and explained the measurements they were taking on my gums) and I found the cleaning to be pleasant, with the latest technology.  Afterwards I was given a dental pack with a toothbrush, floss, mouthwash and toothpaste!  I plan on going back to get some more extensive dental work done, because my teeth shouldn't pay the price for my procrastination!

 

My other cute hygienist

My teeth are happy!