Choosing the right dentist is an important decision that can impact your oral health and overall wellbeing. Whether you are new to the area, unhappy with your current dental care, or just looking for a change, finding a new dentist can feel overwhelming.
Principal Dentist at Indigo Dental in Leeds, Dr Sanaa Kader explains: ‘The relationship between dentist and patient should not be taken for granted, and it is of paramount importance that our patients feel comfortable and listened to at all times. We build up a real rapport with our patients, and they need to feel they can trust us completely.’
Finding a dentist who you can rely on and trust is not easy, so we have put together 10 tips to help you.
1. Start with recommendations
Ask for personal recommendations
Begin your search by asking friends, family, colleagues and neighbours for recommendations. Personal experience provides a valuable insight into the quality of care and the overall patient experience. A personal recommendation is reliable and means you can ask specific questions about any concerns you might have.
Check online reviews
Online reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, Feefo and Google offer a broader perspective and can be helpful if you can’t get a personal recommendation. Look for dentists with consistently positive feedback and read through both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded view.
2. Verify credentials and experience
Check qualifications
Ensure the dentist is properly qualified and licensed to practice. This information should be found on the dentist’s website and can be checked on the General Dental Council’s (GDC) registers. The registers include all dentists, dental nurses, dental technicians, dental therapists, dental hygienists, orthodontic therapists and clinical dental technicians who are registered with the GDC to work in the UK. Look too for advanced training and certifications, which indicate a commitment to continued education.
Consider experience
Experience matters when it comes to specialised dental procedures. If you require specific treatments like orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry or oral surgery, enquire about the dentist’s experience and success rates with those procedures. A good dental practice will also include details about each of their team’s special interests and experience on their website.
3. Check the range of services offered
General dentistry
Ensure the dental practice offers a full range of general dental services, including routine check-ups, hygienist treatment, and remedial treatments like fillings, crowns and bridges. This will ensure that your basic dental needs are met.
Specialist services
Even if you don’t currently require more specialised dental services, you don’t know when you might in the future. This could be due to a dental or periodontal condition or another health issue that arises, or simply a change in circumstance or outlook. Look for a dentist who offers specialist services such as orthodontics, periodontics, facial aesthetics and cosmetic dentistry. This will save you from needing referrals to other practitioners, and also shows that the practice is a highly qualified and well-rounded business.
Emergency care
Prepare for any potential emergency care you might need by enquiring about the dentist’s policy and provisions regarding seeing patients at short notice. It’s important to know that you can reach your dentist during emergencies, perhaps if you find yourself with toothache, lose a tooth, or have a broken dental appliance.
4. Consider the location and office hours
Convenience
Choose a dentist who has a practice near your home, work or school. Think about when you’re likely to visit the practice, as this will affect where is most convenient. For example, if you take your children to the dentist with you during term time, find somewhere near school; or if you prefer to go on your own in your lunch break, you could look for somewhere near the office. This will make it easier to schedule and keep appointments and cut down on travelling time.
Opening hours
Look for a dentist with opening hours that fit your schedule. Some dentists offer evening or weekend appointments, which can be particularly helpful for those with demanding work hours or busy family lives. For example, at our dental practice in Wortley in Leeds, we open until 7pm on Tuesdays and 6pm on Thursdays, as well as from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays.
5. Visit the practice
Trial appointment
Consider booking a one-off appointment for a routine check-up or cleaning. This allows you to experience the dentist’s care first-hand and make an informed decision based on your experience.
Cleanliness and organisation
A visit to the dentist’s practice can tell you a lot. Pay attention to the cleanliness and organisation of the waiting area and treatment rooms. A clean, well-maintained space is a sign of a dentist who values hygiene and patient safety.
Equipment and facilities
Look for a dental practice with modern equipment and technology. Advanced tools and techniques can enhance the quality of care and improve patient outcomes. Even as a layman you’ll be able to spot more advanced equipment by comparing to that at your previous dentist. Also consider whether they have basic IT systems such as online booking and SMS appointment reminders.
Friendly and professional staff
Beyond how they interact with you as a potential new patient, observe how the staff interact with other patients. This includes receptionists, nurses, and anyone else you meet during your visit. Friendly, professional and compassionate staff make a significant difference to your overall experience. Staff should be willing to answer your questions and make you feel comfortable at all times.
6. Communication and comfort
Dentist’s communication style
During your initial consultation, pay attention to how the dentist communicates. A great dentist should be willing to listen to your concerns, explain procedures clearly, and discuss treatment options in detail. They should make you feel comfortable and not rushed.
Patient comfort
Ask about the dentist’s approach to patient comfort. Do they offer extras such as sedation, noise-cancelling headphones, or other measures for patients with dental anxiety or additional needs? A dentist who prioritises patient comfort can make a real difference for anyone with dental anxiety, children, or those who may need extensive treatment.
7. Assess the cost and insurance policies
Transparent pricing
A good dentist should provide clear and transparent pricing for their services, and indicate whether they offer NHS treatment. They should be willing to discuss costs upfront and offer detailed treatment plans, including possible alternatives.
Insurance compatibility
If you have dental insurance, make sure the dentist accepts your plan. Confirm whether they handle insurance claims directly or if you’ll need to file them yourself. Understanding your coverage can help avoid unexpected costs.
Payment options
Enquire about payment options and financing plans. Many dental practices offer flexible payment plans or financing options to help manage the cost of treatment. This is especially important if you’re considering expensive treatments for which you may need to split the cost or pay on a monthly basis.
8. Look for a long-term partner
Preventive care focus
A great dentist prioritises preventive care and education. They should provide guidance on maintaining oral health, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, dietary recommendations and regular check-ups. This will mean regular hygienist appointments, so finding a practice with a good hygiene team is invaluable.
Comprehensive care
Look for a dentist who offers comprehensive care for patients of all ages. This is especially important if you have a family (or might be planning one), as it allows you to establish a long-term relationship with one provider who understands your family’s dental history and needs.
Continuous improvement
Choose a dentist who is committed to continuous improvement and staying updated with the latest advancements in dentistry. This can be demonstrated by participation in ongoing education, attendance at conferences, and integration of new technologies and techniques. See if their social media shows in-clinic training sessions and recent visits to dental health conferences and events.
9. Patient testimonials
Many dental practices showcase patient testimonials on their websites, and these are definitely worth looking at. Testimonials provide insights into the experiences of other patients and help you gauge the dentist’s reputation and patient satisfaction. They can also outline specific treatments and services, which can be helpful when looking for your new dentist.
10. Trust your instincts
Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a dentist. You should feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. If something makes you feel ill at ease, it’s okay to continue your search until you find a dentist who meets your expectations.
Choosing a great dentist involves careful consideration, but by taking the time to thoroughly research potential dentists you can find a trusted dental practice who will support your oral health and provide quality care for years to come. Remember, your oral health is an essential part of your overall wellbeing, and finding the right dentist can make a significant difference in maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.