If you want to start following up on your dental care more closely this year then it's time to find a dental clinic. If you've just moved interstate or are fed up with poor service at your old dentist's, it's also time to look around for a new clinic near you. So where do you get started? Read on for some valuable tips.
Make sure you are comfortable with your dentist
The number one factor when choosing a dentist is the level of trust you have in him or her. Considering that dental treatment is a close affair, you need to be under the care of someone you have a good relationship with. You can evaluate this after going in for a consultation. An ideal dentist will be friendly and will take the time to explain procedures to you before any treatments. This will put you at ease and encourage you to never miss a dental appointment.
Does your dentist specialise in any field?
Just like doctors, you may find that your dentist specialises in certain aspects of dentistry such as pediatrics, periodontal issues, orthodontics, denturial care, cosmetic dentistry or some other field. If you don't have any special dental needs, a general dentist will do just fine. However, if you have special dental needs, looking for a dentist that specialises in that field is better. Pediatric dentists, for example, are better for kids while family dental clinics are suitable for a whole family set up.
Operating hours
It's also wise to note the availability of your dentist. Being private businesses, dental clinics have flexible operating hours. Look out for dental clinics that have wider operating hours. Dentists that operate after hours, for example, might be easier to reach if you have a tight work schedule. It also means you can reach their services if you have an emergency at odd hours.
Bulk billing
If you are a Medicare card holder and are looking to enjoy bulk-billing, make sure to find out if your new dental clinic offers the service. Remember, it's up to your dentist to determine the payment procedure. Discuss with the dentist the modalities of payment at this stage to avoid any surprises down the line.
Once you find an ideal dental clinic you can work with, form a close relationship with your dentist and make your annual checks as required. If you need to make any special checks, he/she will let you know, and you can take it from there.
For more information, contact a business such as Ash Dental.
Share15 January 2015
I have worked as a school nurse for decades. Children come to me with all sorts of scrapes and bumps and bruises. Black eyes from playing football, sprained wrists from falling off the monkey bars and stomachaches from too many sweets are common complaints. However, the issue that seems to cause the greatest angst is tooth problems. Sometimes a child will have a second tooth knocked out when playing sport and parents arrive in tears. At other times, children come to my office crying because their friends are teasing them about teeth that are discoloured or stick out. I take an active interest in the latest dental news so that I can give parents and children comfort and advice. I have included some of my collected wisdom on these pages. Perhaps this information can help you understand some options when faced with a dental problem. Thank you for reading.