I was recently informed by a patient that a change in his job will be moving him and his family out of the sunshine state and up north to Lincoln, NE. Like any dentist, I am always sad to see patients go after I have built long-lasting relationships with them. Having treated him for many years, I knew it was important to him to continue to receive the same one-on-one treatment in a relaxing environment. Fortunately, I knew of a wonderful practice in Lincoln where patient comfort and tailored care are prioritized. After providing the recommendation, I started thinking about everything that goes into the process of choosing a new dentist. I believe that one of the best ways you can feel confident in your move is to be informed, so I’ve come up with six of the best questions that you can ask when making your decision.
One: Do they offer comprehensive services?
Treatment with your dentist should be all-inclusive. It’s truthfully just a pain to be told by a doctor that they can’t treat you for what they’re recommending. Even if they refer to you another practice that they know well, you’re still far less likely to follow up with it, because no one wants to have to deal with doing more research, filling out more forms, and looking into more insurance information. Check to see what services the dental office you’re considering offers. Whether you need restorative or cosmetic treatment, help with sleep apnea, or a nightguard for TMJ disorder, it’s easier for you if they can have you covered at their own office.
Two: Is their technology up to date?
The world of dental care is constantly evolving and so is the technology involved. It’s important that the practice you choose is staying aware of these changes and outfitting their office with the latest and most up to date options. Knowing that they are doing so will give you confidence that you are receiving the highest quality of care possible.
Three: How personalized will the care be?
Any time you see a doctor, you don’t want to feel like you’re just another appointment for them to check off of their list for the day. The practice you choose should make it a point to provide one-on-one attention to you throughout the entirety of your appointment and follow up if you have any treatments done there. Not only should you feel at home, but you also want to feel listened to and well cared for by your dentist.
Four: Do they accept my dental insurance, and what are the payment options?
This is one of the most important questions you will want to find the answer to before choosing a practice. Depending on what type of insurance you have, some companies require that a practice is in their network, and they should have a website with more information regarding it. But what if you don’t have insurance? If this is the case, many dental offices offer memberships to help you receive the dental care you need while still being able to afford it.
Five: How is the dentist working to continue their learning?
Every practice should be led by a dentist who is committed to keeping them abreast with all of the latest knowledge that the dental industry has to offer so that they can provide you with superior care. This is why it’s important to know what your dentist has done and is still doing to further their education and enhance their skills, no matter how long they’ve been practicing.
Six: What are other people saying about the practice?
You likely wouldn’t spend thousands of dollars on a new piece of technology without reading reviews from others who had already purchased it. In the same way, you don’t want to invest your time and money at a dental practice if they don’t have winning reviews.
No matter where life takes you in your move, it is our hope that you will find a new dental home where you can receive the best personal, tailored treatment that dentistry has to offer. Take these questions with you as you begin your search, and you’re sure to be happy with your decision!
About the Author
When it comes to high-quality one-on-one dental care, you won’t find a better local dentist in Naples than Dr. Jeffrey Skupny at Island Coast Dentistry. Regardless of your dental needs, his priority is to ensure that each of his patients receives the tailed care that their unique situations need. He has made it a point to participate in continuing education in order to enhance his skills and knowledge, which gives him the ability to provide superior care. If you’re ready to schedule your next dental appointment with our team here in Naples, you can request an appointment online or call (239) 261-5566.