Whether you’re looking for a dentist because you are new to the area or because you have parted ways with your old one, it is important to make the right choice. You will want to establish a good working relationship with your dentist to preserve the health of your mouth and maintain a lifetime of beautiful smiles.

Setting Up the First Appointment

Before committing to any family and cosmetic dentistry practice, it is important to make sure it’s a good fit by asking a few key questions. This is best done by scheduling an initial appointment. Most dental practices have time set aside for these types of “interview” style meetings, so be open with your request.

Have a list of relevant questions available for the dentist and bring it with you so that you can make notes. This will be especially handy if you are visiting several local dentists. Some questions should be answered by the receptionist before the interview begins. These include inquiries about insurance and payment options.

Atmosphere and Attitudes

When you arrive, have a look around. You will want to feel welcomed and relatively at ease from the moment you walk into the building. Note the small touches that are meant to help people relax. You might notice an aquarium or peaceful music. The staff should be prompt in acknowledging your presence even if they are busy at the time. You should not be made to feel you’re less important than their routine.

Care Plans: How Involved Will You Be?

During any discussion about your oral health or a recommended procedure, you will want to feel that you are an important part of the team and not just another patient. Make sure that you are being heard and that your questions are being answered thoroughly in terms you understand. If you don’t agree with a treatment plan, will you be given other options, or will your concerns be ignored? What will happen if there is an issue with your insurance? Do not be afraid to ask even the difficult questions.

The Dentist: Training and Community Ties

For some people, knowing where their dentist trained is significant. For others, where the doctor grew up or calls home is more important. While it might be seen as somewhat rude or awkward to ask exactly where the dentist lives, it is good to know that he or she has ties to the community. No one wants to get familiar with a practice that will be closed in a few months anyway.

Good Samaritan Dental Implant Institute has been serving the wonderful people of West Palm Beach, Florida, for a long time, and we have no plans of stopping any time soon. Dr. Andrew Slavin has spent 25 years in dedicated service, and he continues to learn and grow in his field. We’re committed to providing the very best of care to every patient and causing as little discomfort as possible.

Choosing a dentist is a vitally important process because the long-term health of your teeth and beauty of your smile are at stake. Whether your dental needs are preventative, restorative or cosmetic, we’re confident you’ll decide that our practice suits them.