Picking a family dentist can be a big decision whether you are new to a community, got new dental insurance, or feel it’s something you should prioritize since your family is growing.
A family dentist can be an enormous help as you and your children move through life’s different stages. This type of dentist is trained in all areas so they can perform various procedures on both children and adults. Many dentists today also do orthodontics or partner with an orthodontist so your child can move seamlessly through dental and orthodontic treatments with optimal communication and record-keeping.
A dentist for the family is also skilled with geriatric dental issues so those who are also taking care of parents can bring both children and parents to the same dentist. That can make it extremely convenient and hassle-free.
So how do you choose the right family dentist? Here is a list of things to consider:
Experience and Skills
A reputable family dentist has some experience working with all types of issues in young children, teens, adults, and elderly adults. Look for where they completed their residency, any specialty certifications earned, and what the office provides for the different age groups in services, office hospitality, communication, and billing.
Education
Look at the education the dentist had before coming to the practice. Many universities offer exceptional dental training but some specialize in family dentistry. You may need to do a little research or ask a few questions of the dentist or office staff to determine whether the dentist has the education you require to take care of your family.
Office Environment
The office environment speaks volumes regarding how the dentist views the practice and patients. All reputable dental offices are clean and sanitary but does it give off a clinical vibe or is it warm and inviting?
This may seem like something trivial to look at but is an important element when you consider that both children and senior citizens will be seeing the dentist. Both could have fears of dental procedures and older people with the onset of dementia could be upset by a hospital-like setting.
An office environment with games for children, television for adults, and refreshments will encourage all members of your family to relax.
The Extras
Many dental offices are putting out extra touches so patients of all ages feel comfortable. Look for televisions in the ceiling over patient chairs so patients can be relaxed during exams and procedures. Another extra could be brighter patient rooms or being able to customize crowns on-site to reduce the number of dental appointments.
Emergency Care
A family dentist that offers emergency care should be on your selection list. An unexpected event can happen where someone in your family will need dental care. Emergency dental visits typically work on mouth injuries from sports, car, or home accidents, but also handle painful infections that always seem to happen after hours.
Easy Scheduling
Everyone is so busy today that making dental appointments can be challenging, especially in a larger family that includes children, adults, and older adults. Look for a family dentist that offers flexible scheduling with some early morning, evening, or weekend appointments available.
Payment Options
It’s important to know you can pay for dental procedures since some can be expensive. A good family dentist will offer transparent pricing before any procedure. Some will offer discounts to families so everyone can get great oral health care.
Family dentists may offer other discounts like military or senior discounts, participate in programs that pay for dental procedures for those who can’t pay, and participate in community outreach. They will have an experienced staff who can check your insurance to see what it pays.
Many family dentists offer services like budget billing, 0% payment options, and other types of billing that ease the worry of paying for ongoing dental treatment.
Personality Fits
A big part of choosing a family dentist who is right for you is to pick one who is relatable. You will know by instinct whether their personality suits that of you and your family.
After all, your family will be seeing this dentist for years to come so you should be able to talk to them about dental needs, costs, and even the personalities of your children so the dentist can better serve the entire family.
You don’t want anyone dreading seeing the dentist so their personality should be a comforting and welcoming one. Each family member needs to feel safe in their care.
We Would Love to Talk to You
Those looking for a caring, qualified family dentist should consider us. We would love to meet you and answer your questions! Call our office or schedule an appointment today to see how we can address your family’s oral health needs!
