What To Consider When Choosing A Dentist

What To Consider When Choosing A Dentist


Maintaining good oral hygiene is an important aspect of keeping your teeth and mouth happy, but so is finding a reliable and qualified dentist. A good dentist provides the foundation you and your family will need for long-term oral health, but finding one may seem a bit daunting. At West Gate Dental, we understand it may be challenging to narrow down your choices, and to help with that, here are a few important points to consider when looking for a dentist.



Find Dentists Through Recommendations Or Networks

Your friends, family, and even coworkers can be great resources when putting together a list of dentists. Personal testimonies about the dentist and office staff can give you another level of insight about a dentist beyond a list of professional qualifications. In particular, you can ask questions regarding treatment options, wait times, payment handling, and comfort level with the staff. 

If you are moving, it doesn’t hurt to ask your current dentist if he or she has any recommendations near your new home. You can also check a list of local dentists who are members of professional networks, such as the American Dental Association (ADA) and Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Each state also has a local dental society or board that you can also reach.

Cost & Health Benefits

Your health insurance plays an important role in determining which dentists you can choose from, especially dental HMOs which limit your choice to a dentist who is part of the HMO network. If you are under a PPO plan, you have some more freedom in choosing a dentist. Be sure to check with the dentist’s office to see if they will accept your insurance and what your copayments will be. Dental insurance coverage will also vary by procedures, so be sure to check what is paid for by your insurance or if you will have to pay for fillings, crowns, or root canals. Even with insurance, you may still take on some of the cost.

Pay A Visit To The Office

When you have your list of prospective dentists, it’s now time to meet them in person. Most dental offices will accommodate for consultation meetings where you can meet the staff and dentists. This is a great chance to find out many aspects of the office in person, such as:

  • Professional qualifications of the dentist and the staff
  • Comfort level while asking questions
  • Clean, kid-friendly environment
  • Appointment process and billing
  • Emergency treatment availability
  • Convenience of location and hours

Contact Your Lincoln Family Dentistry For A Consultation

Finding a good dentist can be a tough process. At West Gate Dental, we are committed to providing a quality option for prospective patients through our wide range of dental care. We pride ourselves in our friendly office culture, highly-qualified staff, and personalized treatments, but don’t just take our word for it. We invite you to come see for yourself! Please feel free to contact us with any of your questions or schedule a consultation with us by calling (402) 475-8710. We look forward to meeting you!