Dental Care for All of Us

Dental care is important for the whole family. Your body can heal from many injuries, but your teeth cannot regenerate. That's why you need to protect them with daily care and biannual dentist visits. If you don't currently have a dentist, don't worry. It's easy to find a dentist to treat you and your family. Here are four tips that will help you find a dentist:

1. Seek a referral.

Once people find a dentist they like, they usually stick with them for a long time. You may find yourself without a dentist because you've recently moved to a new area or your favorite dentist retired. If you're still on good terms with your prior dentist, they may be able to help you find a new dentist. Ask your previous dentist for a referral. They can recommend a dentist they trust, and you can benefit from their insider expertise.

2. Check out local reviews.

Reviews are another good way to find a dentist, especially if you have too many dentists to choose from. Pick your dentist by finding out what other people have to say about dentists in the area. You should especially pay attention to what each review has to say. If you need a dentist with a very patient, gentle bedside manner, find reviews that discuss that aspect of patient care. Utilizing others' experiences can help you find a dentist who's a great fit for you and your family.

3. Look for a dentist who takes your insurance.

When choosing a family dentist, you should take the cost into account. Many families choose to purchase dental insurance, either on their own or through their employers. Dental insurance can drastically reduce the cost of caring for your family's teeth, but only if you choose a dentist who accepts your insurance. When choosing a dentist, make sure they're part of your insurance network. Most dentists have this information readily available online. However, you can call their office to find out for sure.

4. Find a dentist who specializes in the area of your concerns.

All dentists receive the same basic training, but some dentists choose to specialize. If you're a nervous patient, you may want to find a dentist who is familiar with sedation dentistry. If you have aesthetic concerns about your teeth, a cosmetic dentist can help you. Family dentists may be ideal for patients whose families include people of different ages.