How to Find the Perfect Dentist

Tips on how to find the right dentist for you and your family

By Dr. Stephanie Vera, DDS

Finding the right dentist for you and your family can feel a bit overwhelming, and it can be tough to know where to start. You want a dentist that is good, but finding an office you love needs more – you want someone you can build a relationship with, someone who can put fears at ease, and someone you can trust.

First things first, let's talk about what to look for in a dental office. Some important factors to consider include the location, office hours, services offered, what insurances they are in network with, and of course, the dentist's qualifications and experience.

But let's be real, as busy parents, we also need to consider things like whether or not the waiting room has toys to keep our little ones entertained, or if office is inviting and comforting.

So, how do we find a dentist that meets all of our criteria? Here are a few tips:

1. Ask for recommendations from friends and family. Word of mouth is often the best way to find a great dentist. Especially if you ask people you know and trust!

2. Check online reviews. While you can't always trust everything you read on the internet, reading reviews from other patients can give you a good idea of what to expect. Just be sure to take everything with a grain of salt - one bad review doesn’t necessarily mean the dentist is terrible. 

3. Visit the office before making an appointment. This will give you a chance to see the waiting room, meet the staff, and get a feel for the overall vibe of the office.

4. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your dentist should prioritize preventative care and education and takes the time to explain any procedures. A good dentist will be happy to answer any questions you have and won’t be defensive of offended if you want to seek a second opinion.

5. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right or if you don't feel comfortable with a particular dentist, it's okay to keep looking! You want to find a dentist who makes you and your family feel comfortable and confident in their abilities.

Now, let's talk about some of the benefits of finding the right dentist. First and foremost, regular dental checkups can help prevent more serious dental issues down the road. Plus, if you have kids, getting them comfortable with going to the dentist at a young age can help set them up for a lifetime of good oral health habits.

And let's not forget about the peace of mind that comes with knowing you and your family are in good hands. Going to the dentist can be nerve-wracking, but having a dentist who you trust and feel comfortable with can make all the difference.

So there you have it - some tips for finding the right dentist for you and your family. Don’t settle for just any dentist - take the time to find one that you feel comfortable with and trust. Remember, while it may not be the most exciting task on your to-do list, taking care of your oral health is important. Don’t settle for just any dentist - take the time to find one that you feel comfortable with and trust.  And hopefully you’ll find someone who can be there to share in the joys of life as you and your family grow!

Dr. Stephanie Vera is a general dentist practicing in Murphy, Texas. She is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry and believes education and prevention are essential to a happy, healthy smile.