How to Look For the Best Dentist in Town

With around 187,043 dental offices in the country, it can be difficult to find the best dentist near you. Even if you live in a small town, it can be challenging to narrow down your choices. You want to ensure you pick the right dentist that offers the services you need. 


Whether you just moved to a new town or you want to change up your dental care, there are some things to keep in mind when finding a dentist. This guide will discuss how to find a new dentist's office to receive the best oral care possible. 

Look at Basic Information

Regular dental visits are important to healthy oral hygiene. When starting your dentist search, begin with the basic information. Consider the following things:

  • Convenient office hours
  • Office location from your job or home
  • ADA membership
  • Part of your dental insurance network

Ask About Their Education and Certificates

Their diplomas from dental school should be clearly displayed in the dentist's office. Ask them about what additional credentials they've received on top of their degree.

Continuing education is important in the healthcare industry as new treatments and technologies get introduced. You should ask your potential new dentist the following questions:

  • How many classes do they take each year?
  • What kind of training have they had in the past?
  • Does the entire staff do continued education?

On top of the dentist receiving new education, you want every member of their staff to be up-to-date in pertinent information as well. 

Evaluate Their Office

Once you've narrowed down your list of potential dentists, make an appointment with them. When you're finding a dentist, it's important that you feel comfortable in their office. 

While an outdated waiting room isn't necessarily a sign that your dentist is inexperienced, you also don't want to be in an unclean space. When you head into their office, you should also ask them about the technology they use in their cleaning practices. They should be offering the most updated technology available. 

This initial appointment should include more than routine dental cleaning. Sometimes it might not even include teeth cleaning.

You want to take the time to talk to the hygienists, dentist, and other staff members. They should take the time to get to know you and your health goals. If they just want to rush you in and out, it might not be a good fit. 

Search the Company on the Internet 

Patient recommendations available online on third-party websites will help answer many of your questions. Look for local offices that have high reviews and select the first few that pop up. 

While many dental offices include patient testimonials on their website, they're going to highlight the positive ones. That's why looking on third-party websites is important. You'll get an unbiased representation of the dental office's services. 

Follow Our Tips to Find the Best Dentist 

It can be hard to find the best dentist to fit your needs. With a little bit of research and patience, you're sure to find the one that's right for you. 

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