Everyone look toward the camera! Now say cheese! Your family photos should look perfect. If you’re skipping visits to your Georgetown dentist, however, your children’s teeth might not. The best kids dentist in Georgetown can help your children maintain healthy, pearly whites.
Not sure how to choose between Georgetown dentists? Read on for the five tips you need to complete a successful search today!
1. Ask for Recommendations
About 87% of children have visited a local dentist in the past year. Routine appointments will help improve and maintain your child’s oral health. Talk to other parents in Georgetown who take their children to see a dentist every six months.
Asking for referrals will help you build a list of Georgetown dentists to research further. It can also help you determine which dentists to avoid. Ask each parent if they experienced any problems at the dentist’s office.
For example, perhaps the dentist struggles to put their patients at ease. An experienced children’s dentist is patient and approachable. They should have experienced alleviating a child’s dental anxiety.
When speaking to other Georgetown parents, consider asking:
- Where the dental practice is located
- If they offer emergency services
- What dental services their child received
- If their child was comfortable
- If the dentist was friendly
- What credentials the dentist has
- How long they’ve practiced
If you’re unable to gather referrals, start searching online instead. Look for a dentist based on your child’s unique needs. For example, you may need to search for “pediatric dentist tongue tie near me” for specialized treatment.
As you build a list of dentists to research further, don’t forget to look online for reviews. Reviews will help you find a reputable and reliable dentist. The best dentists will want to maintain their well-earned reputation by offering the best services to every patient.
Look at the practice’s BBB listing, Google Business profile, or Yelp page. Make sure the dentist doesn’t have any medical malpractice claims against them. If you find a variety of negative reviews, remove that dentist from your list.
2. Review Credentials
Make sure each kid’s dentist in Georgetown has the proper credentials.
First, determine where they went to school. Confirm that they graduated from an accredited dental school. Learn about their education, experience, and if they encourage continuous training.
An experienced dentist will have thorough knowledge of common oral health issues. They’ll also have a thorough understanding of children’s development.
Determine if their education included child psychology courses. These dentists could have an easier time easing your child’s dental anxieties.
Look for dentists who continue their education while practicing. These Georgetown dentists keep up with new techniques, services, and technologies. Determine what technologies they use within their practice.
Determine if the dentist is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA). Members are held to higher standards of care.
Consider how long each dentist has owned their own practice. An established business has already worked out operational issues. You’re more likely to have a better experience at an established practice.
3. Check Their Services
Learn more about the dental services offered at each practice. For example, your child may need:
- Restorative dentistry
- Preventive dentistry
- Sedation dentistry
About 514 million children worldwide suffer from caries (cavities) of primary teeth. Your child could develop a cavity if they don’t prioritize their oral health at home. Look for dentists who stress preventive dentistry.
They’ll help motivate your child to care for their teeth, ensuring their beautiful smiles last a long time. Helping your child develop healthy oral habits can reduce the risk of cavities.
Preventive dentistry services can include fluoride treatments, sealants, and cleanings. Preventive resin restorations can help before a full cavity is present.
Make sure each practice offers services relevant to your child’s needs. For example, you may need to find a dentist who specializes in pediatric dentist lip tie treatments.
Determine if the dentist offers emergency services. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you can visit their office during extended hours.
4. Visit in Person
Schedule a consultation appointment at three local dental practices. Meet each dentist in person and talk to their staff.
Beforehand, prepare a list of questions you want to ask. For example:
- What are your credentials?
- How long have you owned this practice?
- What services do you offer?
- How do you calm dental anxiety?
- What is your specialty?
- How many patients are you currently treating?
Ask questions about their availability. If the dentist treats too many patients, they could rush between patients. These dentists won’t provide customized care.
Pay attention to how the dentist speaks and acts. Look for someone with good bedside manner and a friendly disposition.
Meeting each dentist in person will allow you to explore the practice. Make sure it’s clean and organized. Look for practices that appeal to children.
For example, you may find colorful art on the walls, games, toys, and children’s books in the waiting room.
Talk to the staff. Make sure they’re inviting and friendly.
Before leaving, ask yourself if your child would feel comfortable in that environment. If not, continue your search.
Consider where each practice is located. Try to find a practice near your child’s school or near home. Finding a nearby practice will help you avoid traffic.
5. Discuss Costs
Before making your final decision, ask each practice for an itemized list of the services they offer. Compare costs between three local practices. Determine if the practice offers any financing options.
Check with your insurance provider to determine if the dentist falls within our network.
Don’t make a decision based on pricing alone. Instead, review your notes. Make sure you’re choosing the best Georgetown dentist based on your child’s oral health care needs.
Find the Best Georgetown Dentist Today
Don’t rush to choose a Georgetown dentist. Instead, do your due diligence to find the best dentist based on your child’s needs. With these tips, you can feel confident in your final choice.
The best dentist will benefit your child’s smile for years to come.
Our kid-centered practice is committed to providing the highest quality pediatric dental care. We can’t wait to see you. Contact us now to schedule your child’s next appointment.
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