You go to your doctor regularly, for annual exams and your overall health. So, why is it that some people don’t realize the same importance when it comes to their oral health? Regular dentist appointments are key because they help identify issues before they progress. Not to mention the fact that professional cleanings help reduce plaque build-up, to help fight gingivitis and gum disease.
Are you looking for a dentist in Columbia, SC? Perhaps, you are unhappy with your current dentist. Maybe, you are new to the area, or you are looking to prioritize your oral health, moving forward. Regardless, here are some tips for choosing the right dentist in Columbia, SC.
Think About The Where & When
Before you do anything, you need to consider location. Do you want a dentist near home or close to your workplace? When will you be scheduling appointments? Is it easier for you to book something during your lunch hour or after work? Maybe Saturday visits are more your thing. As you search for your Columbia dentist, also consider their office hours. Some offer bookings for Saturday, while others may not. Some may only provide 9-to-5 appointments, which may not accommodate your schedule.
Turn To Family, Friends, Colleagues … And Social Media!
The next step in searching for the “right” dentist is turning to friends, co-workers, and family. You want to ask the people you trust most who they go to. However, there are some people out there who aren’t fortunate enough to live or work near the ones they love most. If that’s the case for you, turn to a trusted neighbor or hop onto Facebook. You can pool your network of followers or head to a community group. You’re bound to get several great suggestions.
Make Up a List
After talking to friends and family (plus, a review of Facebook comments), create a list of three to five candidates. Check out their websites and social media pages to get a sneak peek at their offices. Do a Google review of each dental office, so that you can gather insight on how other patients view their services. Some things to consider while scrolling through those reviews are appointment wait times, professionalism, technologies, and overall service.
Ask For A Visit (Before An “Official” Visit)
It’s completely fine to ask a dental office if you can swing by for a small tour of their offices. You may even want to sit down with someone from the dental team to talk and ask questions. The objective is to ensure you feel comfortable in this new dental office. If you sit down with a dentist, below are some questions you can ask:
- Are you a member of an organized dental association (i.e. American Dental Association)?
- What dental treatments do you do in the office? Are there procedures you refer, out-of-office?
- How far in advance are routine check-ups scheduled?
- Are financing options available?
- How do you keep patients comfortable if they are nervous or have dental anxiety?
- Lastly, ask about technologies used.
Look At Your Dental Insurance Plan
Finally, look at your dental health benefits. Some plans limit your choice to a member in a specific network. However, if you feel a certain connection with a dental office that was on your list, then go with your gut and move forward with them. Finding the “right” dentist is a daunting task. You want to go with the one that makes you feel most at ease. After all, they hold you and your family’s oral health, in their hands.
Looking For The Right Dentist In Columbia, SC? Look No Further
If you are looking for a new dentist in Columbia, SC, the clear choice is Smile Columbia Dentistry. From cosmetic to restorative and general dentistry treatments, we offer a comprehensive list of dental procedures for individuals and families.
Dr. Adam Hahn believes that much like fingerprints, each smile is unique. He will take the extra time and care to get to know you, so he can create a custom dental treatment plan that covers your concerns and fulfills your goals. During your initial appointment, you can expect a comprehensive examination, full x-rays, and a one-on-one consultation. Our dental office uses state-of-the-art technologies during diagnosis, procedures, and treatments. In addition, we work with all patients to find suitable arrangements for financing options.
At Smile Columbia Dentistry, we welcome new patients into our extended dental family. We treat you with the same professional standards and personal attention as we would our loved ones. For more information, or to book an appointment, call us today at (803) 781-9090. We look forward to hearing from you!
