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We've all had bad experiences at the dentist. While some of us have been reluctant to go back for that very reason, it's important to find a Reno dentist you enjoy going to, preferably one equipped with the latest technology. But how do you know if the dentist is a good fit? Doing your homework before choosing a dentist is a smart move. Make sure the dentist you choose is someone you can trust to listen to you and take care of your teeth. You’ll also want to find an office that will help you understand what your dental health care plan will pay for. Asking the right questions can help you discover everything you need to know.

What Areas Do You Specialize In?

This question is important to ask because finding a dentist who can take care of your dental needs is crucial. Finding a dentist who focuses more on cosmetic work (such as white fillings) may not be enough for you. Knowing what areas a dentist specializes in is important. It helps you get a good idea of which services they are best equipped to provide. However, if you're looking for cosmetic dentistry experience, it's important to remember that the dentist you choose must still have the right knowledge, training, and equipment to work on your teeth and gums.  

Do You Take X-rays When Necessary?  

X-rays can reveal areas of decay, gingivitis, or other issues that are invisible to the untrained eye. They also help dentists determine the best type of treatment for you, as well as the most suitable restorations. If you're unsure if a dentist takes X-rays, ask this question. If the dentist doesn't take X-rays as a standard step, you might want to think about going somewhere else.  

Will You Give Me Your Recommendations in Writing?

It's important to ask if the dentist will put your treatment plan in writing. This simple action will help you in the long run in case the dentist does not meet your expectations, or something happens that changes your plans. That is helpful because it means you have records of your dental health care plan. If a dentist refuses to give you a written plan, you should consider finding a dentist who will.

Can You Provide Me with References?

References are important to have when selecting a dentist. That is because a dentist's reputation is essential, and word of mouth is the best way to find out if someone is good for you. If the dentist cannot give you references, it might signify that they are not a quality dentist. Past performance is the best indicator of future success.

Do You Have Payment Plans Available?

If you are a patient, you often have the choice of whether you want to pay for dental services upfront or pay for them over time. Payment plans are usually a good idea if you are a low-income patient and need the time to save up enough money. That said, dental insurance companies also typically provide cost-effective plans designed to help patients get their needs addressed. Depending on your plan, you may not need to ask this question.

Will You Guarantee My Satisfaction?  

Getting the dental services you need can be an expensive process, and a dentist might charge extra fees for extra services. If you don't feel your dentist is giving you the dental service you need, you should consider going somewhere else. The best dentists offer a guarantee that they will fulfill your needs and make sure your treatment is as satisfactory as possible. You deserve to get good treatment.

What is Your Waiting Policy?

It's important to know how quickly you can get in for treatment. Depending on the situation, this could even be more important than the quality of the care you receive. If a dentist has a tight schedule with no way to fit you in during off-peak hours, you're likely to experience long wait times. That is usually a sign that the dentist is not well-equipped, does not have adequate staff, or is not particularly good at handling patients. Some dentists also have special policies in place for emergencies. Asking this question helps you to have a better idea of what your dentist's policy is for you.  

How Do You Determine How Many Visits I Need?

If you need dental work and you don't know how many visits you'll need, you must count on the dentist to be able to tell you. If you have a lot of work done, you're likely to need more than one visit. The best dentist will be able to tell you whether you’ll be a frequent or an occasional patient. You should discuss your needs with them when you first come in, as this will help give them a more accurate idea of how often you should be coming in for dental work.  

Do You Offer Free Consultations?

If you're having a dental issue, you probably want to know what your options are. If a dentist has a set fee for getting treatment and says that the services you need aren't included, you might find that the cost of their service isn’t worth it. Some dentists will provide free consultations and can provide you with an estimate of what you can expect to pay for dental work.  

Will You Teach Me Preventative Tips?

A lot of the work that goes into a successful dental relationship is knowing how to prevent problems. If your dentist doesn't teach you preventative techniques, you might be more likely to experience complications down the road. That is an important and often overlooked part of your dental care experience. Knowledge is power!

Get the Best Reno Dentist for Your Dental Needs

There's nothing wrong with being picky when you’re choosing your dental. After all, your dental health can often have major ramifications for your overall wellbeing, which means that it could greatly impact the quality of your life down the line. If you haven't found a dental care provider yet, give us a call at Smile Design Implant Center. Our dentists are ready to assist you.