Moving to a new city involves making multiple adjustments, such as changing your dentist. Finding a reputable dentist who makes you feel comfortable during checkups or dental procedures and cares about your dental health and overall health is crucial. Even celebrities like Ryan Reynolds and Olivia Wilde agree that dental health is important which is why you should make the effort to find a good dental provider in a new city.
Define What You are Looking for
Start by outlining the qualities that you are looking for in a dentist. Some important factors to consider in this process include the dentist’s experience, training, and services provided. This is because some dentists specialize in installing dental implants while others specialize in family orthodontics. Also, consider whether the dentist is accepting new patients or not and whether their working hours suit your schedule.
Ask for Referrals
Your friends, new neighbors, and coworkers can recommend a good dentist for you in the new city. You should also consider talking to your former dentist and especially if you are relocating to a nearby town. He or she may know a dentist who is a member of the dental community or who frequently attends dental conferences.
Contact Your Local Dental Society
You can find a list of local or state dental societies on the American Dental Society (ADA)’s website under the find-a-dentist tool. Alternatively, you can search on the telephone directory in the “dentists” category. Ensure that you call or visit several dentists to choose one that meets your requirements.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Your insurer can also assist you find a good dentist for you and your family after relocating to a new city. The best thing about insurance providers is that they recommend ADA- approved dentists. Additionally, they will offer a list of the dental care providers that fit your dental plan.
Research Online
Researching on the internet can also help you find reputable dentists in your new city. In today’s internet era, it is easy to notice online advertisements about any service you are looking for, including dental care.
Visit the expert’s website and check important information like services provided and customer reviews. This will give you insights on the type of experience you should expect if you decide to work with the dentist in question. Avoid dentists with a pattern of bad criticism.
Moreover, many dentists today are active on their social media pages. Check them to determine their qualifications and personality. You should also check whether they are members of various professional bodies like the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM).
Schedule a Consultation
After finding several prospective dentists, call or visit them in their respective offices. During the initial face-to-face meeting, ask several questions like how they handle emergencies to determine their level of professionalism. Visiting will also allow you to see whether the office is clean and comfortable and whether the employees are friendly and welcoming.
In summary, choosing the right dentist is one of the most important decisions after moving to a new city. Start the search immediately instead of waiting until you develop an oral problem.