7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Dentist
Just like selecting the best doctor or specialist – you want to make sure your dentist is the best choice for you and your family. The best fit will not always be the first option on Google or the first one you visit, especially if you have anxiety around dental care.
A common misconception is that all dentists are the same and work the same way, but this isn’t true. Some will specialise in cosmetic or orthodontic treatments, while others will be experts at keeping anxious patients calm or focusing solely on childhood dental care.
Whatever your circumstance may be, here are seven common mistakes that you can avoid when shopping around for your new dentist.
- Choosing a dentist too far from home
Some dental issues are emergencies and can pop up out of nowhere. In this case, you need to have your dentist close by to get that broken tooth or aching toothache seen as soon as possible. Additionally, if you’ve received intensive dental treatment that will leave your mouth feeling numb or sore, a long commute will not be your friend.
- Ignoring reviews
There is little that offers as much exposure for businesses as reviews. Bad ones can turn people away and good ones will have them knocking down the door. When searching for the right dental care – it’s important to listen to the previous patients of the clinic, paying attention to their experience with any of your concerns, such as cleanliness, friendliness and a calm demeanour.
The Tooth Place is proud to hold a five-star review consistently from over 150 happy patients who have gained confidence and excellent dental care from our team.
- Choosing an amateur dentist
You don’t want to have a poorly trained or unqualified person poking around in your mouth. In selecting your dentist, ensure they have the right experience to deal with your dental issues or potential issues and research their qualifications before you go. Most dental practices will have their dentists proudly displayed on their website with a blurb of their experience, such as here on our website.
- Selecting a practice with limited specialties
Once you finally decide on a dentist, you shouldn’t have to go to another practice after receiving your diagnosis. By selecting a practice that specialises in everything from cosmetic dental care to general dental care, you will only need to get to know one team and have all your information in one place. This can be invaluable in case of emergency or if you’re wanting expedited treatment.
- Going old school
There is something to be said for the original dental practices, but these days there is so much technology and research that truly allows dentists to be at the top of their game. You want to make sure your dentist is one of those big players who will embrace the latest treatments in both general and cosmetic dental care, such as Invisalign.
- Ignoring the price
The cheapest option for dental care will not always be the best one, and neither will the most expensive. You should never compromise on quality when it comes to any kind of healthcare or trust a dentist who offers you a price that sounds too good to be true. However, be aware of dentists who will overcharge and not offer a fair price.
Many good dentists offer payment plans to help cover the cost of your treatments to make quality care more affordable (to read about The Tooth Place’s options, click here).
- Ignoring word of mouth recommendations
Word of mouth recommendations is an invaluable treasure for any business. If someone in your life who you care about vouches for a dentist, chances are you will receive a treatment that is thorough, gentle, well explained and properly priced. When looking for your dentist, ask local friends or family for their recommendations and be sure to listen to their advice.
Experience the difference in dental care at The Tooth Place…
With over 25 years of combined experience, our dentists are experts in a range of treatments and diagnostic procedures, covering comprehensive general dental and speciality cosmetic dental care. We keep a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere from the moment you walk in the door to when you leave with your new smile.
Going to the dentist doesn’t have to feel daunting. With affordable treatments, a range of payment options, advanced technology, high standards of cleanliness, along personalised care – The Tooth Place is the dentist of choice for the locals of Potts Point and the surrounding suburbs.
If you’re ready to make an appointment to experience The Tooth Place difference, give us a call on 9331 2273, or click here to send an enquiry our way. We look forward to showing you the best in dental care.