How to Find Excellent Dentists

Choosing a good dentist is a very important decision. Most people consider a dental visit stressful and unpleasant, so finding a reputable dentist with the ability to put you at ease is essential. Consider what qualities you find most important in a dentist, and thoroughly follow steps to locate a dentist that fits these characteristics.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Yellow Pages
• Insurance Information
• Telephone

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Instructions

Steps

• 1

  Start with the American Dental Association. Seven out of 10 dentists are members of the ADA (see reference 3), and are held to the ADA's standards on education, research, and ethics. Since this represents the majority, the ADA can serve as an effective advocate and resource for patients. The ADA website also provides news and information on dental specialties and prices for different dental treatments. Use the dentist locator at the ADA website, or call the helpline for a referral to a dentist in your area.

• 2

  Ask your personal network for a referral. You'll have better luck finding a dentist you'll love if you go to the people you trust the most. Begin with family, friends, and co-workers, and ask detailed questions to get the most honest answers. Your closest acquaintances will be able to provide useful information on a dentist's bedside manner or customer service.

• 3

  Call your insurance company. Your dental insurance provider will be able to provide a list of dentists in your area that are covered under your specific dental plan, which will save you money on services. Your provider may also provide additional useful information, such as the dentist's credentials, gender, and specializations, and whether he or she is accepting new patients.

• 4

  Look up dentists online or in Yellow Pages. Once you've come up with a list of dentists that fit the qualities you need, do an online search using their names. Most times you can read good and bad reviews, background information, and other testimonials on websites such as Google, Yahoo, or Yellow Pages. Keep in mind that everyone is different, and therefore a dentist with tons of good reviews still may not be the right dentist for you.

• 5

  Schedule a consultation. The best way to determine whether you'll really like a dentist is to pay him or her a visit personally. During your initial consultation, take note of every detail: proximity of location to your home or office, cleanliness of office, friendliness of staff, etc. You want to be comfortable with all aspects of the experience, so write down questions to ask beforehand and take note of their willingness to answer your questions and put you at ease.