How to Check on Doctors & Dentists

There are many choices available to choose your doctor and dentist but how can you know which ones are the best, which ones are safe and which ones are right for your needs? You can usually get some background on your doctors by asking around and taking some time to look for information in the right places. Don't be afraid to ask people at the office about their credentials, schooling and practice habits either.

Things You'll Need

• Internet
• Phone book

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Instructions

• 1

  The first and easiest step to check on a doctor or dentist is to ask the people who have already been their patients. If you have friends that have been to the doctor you are looking at, ask them about their experiences with that particular doctor or at that office. They will give you insight that most people may hold back on.

• 2

  Call around to different offices. Ask the questions you want answers to. Does the dentist do oral surgery and does he gas patients (using Nitrous Oxide, a.k.a. laughing gas) that have a fear of dental procedures or are allergic to Novocaine or other numbing agents? These are important questions that most people want to know. If you are sending a child to see this doctor you want to know how much experience he has working on children.

• 3

  Look online. Check out sites like Consumer Reports Health and the Better Business Bureau to make sure the doctor or dentist you are going to see is in good standing with these companies. You can also find many other places online to check for credentials and find ratings.