How to Choose the Right Dentist
Whether you’ve moved to a new area or are simply ready to move on from your current dentist, finding a new dentist can be a little more tricky than simply picking the one around the corner or the one your friend or coworker says is nice.
Your dental health is important. You owe it to yourself to take a little extra time to find the dentist who’ll provide the right care for you.
BEFORE YOUR VISIT
Consider these steps:
Get referrals for good dentists from your friends, family, and/or coworkers. Use this list of recommendations as the starting point in researching possible options.
Research each dentist’s credentials and experience to narrow down your list to those candidates who have a solid level of expertise. Ideal candidates (and their staffs) should devote time to continuing education each year to ensure they are keeping up with the latest technologies and treatments. Dr. Brooks at White Oak Dental spends many hours each year studying new techniques and technologies, and attending courses from leading dentists where he learns new methods to help better serve your family’s needs.
Review the services they offer to make sure they meet your — and your family’s — needs. This is especially important if you have children. White Oak Dental is proud to partner with you and your entire family to create and maintain beautiful smiles, as well as overall dental health.
Make sure that the dentist you choose is a preferred provider with your insurance plan. If a dentist doesn’t participate in your plan, you receive fewer benefits from your insurance and face higher out-of pocket costs.
Location matters. White Oak’s centralized location in Ooltewah makes it a quick drive for patients from East Brainerd to Cleveland. We are also open early (at 7 a.m.) Monday through Thursday and late (to 7 p.m.) on Tuesdays to accommodate busy work and family schedules.
A new-patient visit isn’t just for an exam or cleaning. It’s a time to get to know your dentist, ask questions, and establish a plan for your long-term dental health goals. During your visit you will meet our friendly staff and get one-on-one attention from Dr. Brooks.
DURING YOUR VISIT
Pay attention to the technology being used. It should be functional and up-to-date, and your dentist should be able to show you digital imagery of your teeth, as well as show you the modern tools that will help you receive the care you deserve.
Ask any questions you have about the dentist’s experience, equipment, and plans for helping you achieve maximum dental health. If you deal with dental anxiety, please let Dr. Brooks know, as he will gladly work with you to help alleviate your fears before and during your appointment.
Make sure you’re comfortable with everything from the dentist’s communication style to the quality of care you receive from the dentist and the entire staff. After you visit White Oak Dental, we are confident that you’ll be ready to trust us with your family’s dental health. We are honored to serve you.
Do you have questions about the services offered at White Oak Dental? Would you like to schedule a new-patient visit? Contact us today.
