Oral care is part of the essential healthcare you have to include in your self-care routine. With this thought in mind, you shouldn’t choose just any dentist you come upon. Dentists do so much more than just take care of a patient’s teeth, so it is completely normal to look for the one that does the job best in your experience. How do you find the best dentist? 

Dentists need to be professional, to be transparent with their services and prices, as well as great with communication skills. However, to help you be sure you are making the right decision when choosing your dentist, we’ve set a list of what to look for in a dentist. 

Reputation – check reviews 

A dentist’s reputation is built quickly, but it is hard to change once made. It is important to note that people who had a negative experience with a dentist’s service will, more likely than not, share their experience with other people. This is why you should always check the reviews people leave on your dentist’s social media. However, while looking through the comments you will find some negative experiences which might turn you away. How to deal with them? 

Look at the date of publishing, as the older are more likely not to be outdated, but do pay special attention to the response. The dentist’s office is still a service, and as such, they should recognize the importance of clear communication with clients. This is why it is important to respond to reviews, especially negative ones, as they can clear up the issue. Unfortunately, not all clients understand the procedures and this is where the issues can arise.

Clean environment – hygiene 

Once you get to the dentist’s, take special attention to their office. Even though hygiene should not be discussed in the medical field, you are still better if you pay attention. In the waiting room, the desks, the trash cans, the sterility of the equipment, you can see everything if you come to get a routine check. 

The waiting room is the face of the dentist’s business so the employees that meet you should have proper attires, and the environment you are in must be pleasant, but clean. The trash bins must not be full, no spillages anywhere and the temperature must be pleasant so as not to aggravate emergency patients that are in pain. 

Attention to detail – precision 

As well as looking at the details yourself, you should specifically look for proof of precision in your dentist’s moves. Teeth are small parts of the human body, located in the oral area that is really sensitive. The mouth is small, filled with nerves, and only a thin membrane away from arteries that connect your brain and face. This is why it is important to avoid even a simple tooth decay issue from going too far. 

The other important major procedure where it is important to know what and how are you dealing with a patient’s teeth are orthodontics appointments. The Penrith Dental Clinic professionals explain the multiple benefits of straighter teeth, like better speaking, easier chewing, easier teeth cleaning, improved looks, and better overall dental health. 

New technology – what are their new services 

A great dentist continues to pursue education to stay at the forefront of the dentist industry. Dentists should stay up-to-date with the latest innovations in dental technology, as well as be trained to use new techniques and equipment in the treatments they provide. Committing to continuing education is part of many careers, but the medical field is always improving, thus the more reason to learn. 

When it comes to the new technology treatments in dentistry, the services that include or are completely based on it will be advertised and explained on the company’s website and social media. However, when you get to your appointment, don’t be afraid of asking to clarify how will these types of services make difference in your case. 

Manual dexterity – coordination and gentleness 

The same as with the surgeon, the dentist’s most important equipment is their hands. The professional dentist is not only a master of science by their education but more importantly a master of the art – the art of making patient’s teeth healthy, white and pretty. Even though the main goal of every dentist is the health of their patient, the aesthetical part doesn’t fall behind in importance. 

The gentleness and precision of a dentist’s touch are important whether you are in pain from major tooth decay or need a simple whitening appointment. A tad bit stronger pressure with the equipment can mean a major trauma to the patient’s physical and mental health. 

Strong interpersonal skills – with both their patients and coworkers 

The dentists are, like any other medical professionals, working in teams. Their team consists mostly of them and their assistant nurse, although you can expect other professionals from the field like orthodontists, or anaesthesiologists. You should see the relaxed atmosphere from both your dentist and their co-workers, especially if you are nervous. 

Interpersonal skills should especially be shown in patients. Your dentist should make you feel safe and as comfortable as possible. Be encouraged to share your oral issues and sensations, as well as the recommendations for the procedures that will happen during or should follow the current appointment. Building trust as the basics for a relationship with their patients is a top priority when it comes to the people skills of any dentist. 

A good businessperson – services for your budget 

At the end of the day, a dentist is a business person, and their profit is what they also need to take care of to stay in business. However, this still doesn’t mean that they can plan out a treatment that your budget will be able to withstand. The passion for their job is not based on their profit, but on the oral health available for everyone. Dental issues can easily take over a person’s life, as these issues can affect many parts of life – eating, drinking, talking, and even moving in some cases. 

A professional dentist will let you in on your current state and give recommendations for further treatment. The treatment can have multiple options, and each may come with a different price point. Be open to the solution that will help you visit your dentist only for yearly check-ups, whatever its price point. Sometimes, although cheaper, temporary solutions can result in major complications later. 

Honesty and patience – the most important skills for a dentist 

A professional dentist is a person of many skills, but the features that will be the most important for their patients will definitely be their patience and honesty. Children can be wary of a stranger that touches their mouth and teeth, which is where the patience of both dentist and parents are tested. 

Making the experience as pleasant as possible for every party is what will be your dentist’s goal. You should be aware of your possibilities and your teeth condition at any time, as your dentist will be honest. Don’t forget that you are the person that makes the final choice and that should never be brought into question.