If you’ve been on the hunt for a dentist, you probably already have a few dental offices in mind. Yet as most of us know, choosing one from the bunch can be tricky. Luckily, we have compiled a list of 5 simple questions to consider before choosing your perfect dentist, and we hope that you can narrow down your search by the end.
- Is this office included in your dental insurance network?
Your healthcare provider can provide you with a list of individual dentists available to you and local to your area. Because of this, you will be able to narrow down your options by choosing an office included in your insurance network. You can find this list in two places: directly from your employer/HR representative OR on your health insurer’s website. Either way, this will allow you to take one step closer to choosing your perfect dentist!
- Is your dentist a member of the ADA? Does it matter?
While various insurance plans most commonly recommend members of the American Dental Association (ADA), that doesn’t mean non-ADA dental members aren’t just as qualified to meet you and your family’s needs.
For example, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) focuses much of its research and attention on dental sleep medicine. However, the dental professionals in this association are still entirely qualified Doctors of Dentistry—they simply have a more concentrated body of knowledge.
In the end, it is entirely up to you and your specific needs that should determine which dentist (and their association) you choose. However, no association is necessarily better than the other. Other organizations to consider when selecting a dentist include:
- American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM)
- American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH)
- Academy of General Dentistry (Chicago, IL)
- Are you seeking a functional dentist?
If you are looking for a dentist that considers your dental health as part of your overall health, you are probably searching for a functional dentist. Simply put, functional dentists often prescribe lifestyle changes and other less “mainstream” solutions to your dental needs. So, if you are in search of these types of approaches, check these databases out:
- Holistic Dentistry
- Mercury-Safe Dentist Directory
- International Academy for Biologic Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM)
- What are your dental needs?
This question is the most significant deciding factor in your search for your next dentist. If your only concerns are the necessary procedures like cleanings and routine checkups, then you have more than enough options to choose from. Yet, if you are looking to have cosmetic work done or have particular issues, your best bet is to find a dentist catered to those specific needs. If you have children, this narrows your search even more, as you should seek a dental office that aids to your child’s comfort.
- Would it be beneficial to you and your family if your dentist provided a translator?
Lastly, if you or any family member speaks a language uncommon to your area, it would be a great idea to consider finding a dentist that speaks the same language or can offer a translator. This way, you can be confident you and your dentist are on the same page with any dental or medical information.
Get in touch with a dentist today by calling (480) 948 – 3680 at Douglas Family Dentistry!
Located at 10630 North Scottsdale Road, Douglas Family Dentistry serves families in Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Glendale, and surrounding Arizona communities. To schedule an appointment to discuss the dental procedures and services we offer, call our office today at 480-948-3680.
