It has been estimated that over
20 percent of the population avoid going to the dentist out of fear. Some
sources suggest that those who avoid the dentist may also suffer from poor
health in general, which is no surprise given the links between poor oral
health and heart disease, strokes, and diabetes, just to name a few.
That’s why many dentists feel so
strongly about prevention. It’s much easier to maintain a healthy body or fight
against the early symptoms of disease than to treat it once it’s started. Tooth
decay is reversible, but a cavity must be treated. Pre-diabetes is reversible,
but diabetes, once you have it, must be managed for the rest of one’s life.
When it comes to dental health and
care, it’s always best to see the same dentist regularly. You’ll establish a
relationship, and that dentist will get to know all your individual requirements,
from concerns to allergies. In addition you’ll have a history together. “Your
regular dentist will be familiar with what’s gone on in your mouth. If anything
happens down the road, it makes a difference how it’s taken care of.
When it comes to your health, it’s important
to be proactive. Ask yourself; are you happy with your current dentist? You
shouldn't have to feel fear every time you make an appointment. The trick is to
find a dental practice with modern technology and compassionate professionals.
But how do you find a dentist who’s right for
you? These few steps can be used as a guideline to help your search.
Get a referral - Ask for recommendations
Talk to people who've had the
kind of dentistry you require and see if they can recommend someone they had a
good experience with. If you’re moving to a new area, it’s always helpful to
ask your GP if she can recommend someone. But don’t stop there. Check with your
work colleagues or local pharmacist for referrals. Use your social network: Put
the word out to friends, relatives and even friends of your friends to let them
know you’re looking.
Narrow your search and Work the Phone
Once you identify a couple of names, narrow your search to
two or three dental practices, check out their websites for information and
call them. A dentist’s website is a great place to start, but you need to call them
to do further research and make your final decision. Always make sure you ask
the following questions:
1- What is the dentist’s educational background and
credentials? Most dental professionals aren’t trained in every single specialty
so it’s important to work with a professional who have the special training and
experience in what you need, or who takes a cross-disciplinary approach and can
refer you to other specialists, if necessary.
2- What should I expect during the first exam? The answer
should include a conversation with the dentist about your general and oral health
history and concerns, including information about any diseases or conditions
you have and any medications you are taking. They should also mention that
you’ll be given a thorough examination of all teeth, including any restorative
work you've had done; a thorough check of gum health, a check for signs of oral
cancer; and x-rays, as needed.
3- What arrangements are made for handling emergencies
outside of working hours? (Most dentists make arrangements with a colleague if
they are unable to tend to emergencies.)
4- Is there a Patient Care Coordinator at the practice and
will she look after you and help you understand your treatment options and work
with you to make the correct decision. Although your dentist should always review
your treatment options and costs before the work is done , but having access to a treatment coordinator is a
great asset as sometimes it can be difficult to understand all the dental and medical
terminology.
The patient care coordinator is a compassionate good listener
with good people skills, somebody who will make you feel at ease, and enjoy
your visit to the practice.
5- How has the dentist kept abreast of new
developments in dentistry? Do the Dentists and dental team use continuing
education courses, seminars and international courses learn about new
techniques and technologies to make sure you have the best treatment options to
offer?
6 – Do they have several hygienists performing the regular
cleaning and hygiene checks?
The hygiene appointment should include an oral health
assessment, prophylaxis, and education on home care. This is all part of the
hygienist’s skill set and is overseen by the dentist.
7- How much time will a routine cleaning and check-up take?
It should last about 45 minutes.
Pay them a visit
Go and see the place in person. Is it easy to get to? Are
the waiting room and surgeries neat, clean and well-organized? Are you treated
with courtesy when you arrive? What’s your sense of the overall atmosphere – do
you feel comfortable in this environment?
Appraising your initial
visit
During your first visit, as a new patient it’s helpful to
ask or be aware of the following:
Is there a dedicated sterilization area? Make sure the practice
uses an autoclave (heat sterilizer) on every instrument that goes in the mouth.
Confirm that all exam rooms are barrier-controlled for full sterilization.
Inquire about patient communication technology, which can
aid your dentist in explaining concerns or procedures. Look for a dental
professional who uses computer imaging, patient education software, and
intra-oral cameras.
Finally, following your examination and full assessment, your
dentist should present with a treatment plan for the ongoing treatment outlining
the costs, benefits and drawbacks of each option. Taking time to ask all your questions
and to make careful observations of the practice will help you make the right
choice of a dentist who will best serve your needs. You’ll have peace of mind
knowing that you are in the best hands for what you want in care that will
enhance both your oral health as well as your general health.
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