Finding a dentist in central Ohio can be challenging. After all, searching “dentist near me” brings up a plethora of options, especially if you live in or near a city. To narrow down your choices and find the best fit, you need to start by asking the right questions. Here’s our guide to all the essential questions to ask a dentist.
Dentist Qualifications
The first thing to make sure of before choosing a new dentist is to make sure they have all the necessary qualifications. This includes the basics like a dental license and a degree from an accredited dental school.
After you have the must-haves checked off, other qualifications set the great dentists apart. Affiliations with professional organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA) and other local dental societies such as the Columbus Dental Society are great to see. Additionally, ask your dentist about their enrollment in continuing education (CE) programs. It’s important for medical professionals to continue to improve and learn, especially with the rapid technological innovations occurring every day.
Office Policies
Consider what policies, procedures, and general administrative procedures you want at your new dentist. Here are a few things to consider before selecting a dentist:
- Opening Hours: Consider the days you prefer to do errands. For example, if you work a typical 9-5, it may be helpful to choose a dentist that offers hours early or later in the day.
- Cancellation Policy: Most dentists require advance notice to cancel or reschedule without a fee—confirm the timeframe to avoid unexpected charges.
- Dental Insurance: Does this practice accept your dental insurance?
Treatment Options
Not all dentists offer the same range of services. Some dentists do it all, while others may not handle wisdom teeth extractions or pediatric care. Consider what you currently need from a dentist and what you may need in the future. It’s helpful to choose a dentist who offers a broad range of services for comprehensive, long-term care.
Emergency Care Availability
You never know when you’ll break a tooth or need any form of emergency dental care, so it’s important to find a dentist who can support you when the unexpected happens. Dentists with limited hours or long booking times may not be able to provide prompt assistance during emergencies. Make sure to ask about their emergency care policies so you’ll have peace of mind in a dental crisis.
Preventative Care and Patient Education
The foundation of oral health is preventative care and education. At Marysville Family Dentistry, we believe in proactive health care over “disease care.” Here’s how we prioritize preventative care and education with our patients:
- Oral cancer screenings
- Regular exams of your teeth and gums
- X-rays when necessary
- Routine cleanings
- Flossing guidance
- Sealants
- Fluoride treatments
- Reviews of your medical history
Ready to find the right dentist for your needs? Schedule a consultation with Marysville Family Dentistry and get all your dental care questions answered by our experienced team.