How to find a good dentist when you move into a new area
It feels like there are a million things to arrange during a house move, but finding a good dentist is something you need to do as soon as you’ve moved into a new area.
Here is a checklist to consider when looking for the right dentist and dental practice:
1. A good atmosphere
Every single patient, whatever the reason they decide to visit the dentist, should be treated politely, efficiently and respectfully by the dentist and the practice staff. A welcoming atmosphere is a ‘must’ and the patients should feel comfortable discussing all possible options and ask questions about potential risks or benefits of suggested treatments. A good dentist provides all kind of information without second thought and sympathises with nervous or phobic patients, children and the elderly.
2. An eye for detail
Keep an eye on the details; a dental practice should be well organised, perfectly clean and tidy. A dentist should be open and honest about the treatment prices and always provide a written treatment plan and cost estimate. The practice should have a clearly documented complaints procedure and should welcome all types of feedback; it should keep full and accurate patient notes and should send appointment reminders.
3. Registered with the General Dental Council (GDC)
All dentists in the UK must be registered with the General Dental Council (GDC), the organisation which regulates all dental professionals, in order to work legally in the country.
Make sure your preferred dentist is registered and provides that information.
4. Training
In addition, check that the dentist you’re about to trust has successfully completed five years of undergraduate training and been awarded a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS or BChD). Continuing professional development since qualifying is desirable, in order to keep up to date with new techniques and treatments.
5. The latest technology
Nowadays, modern technology is defining our everyday lives and dentists should keep up to date with this. Modern methods indicate that a dental practice provides the best for its patients; special dental cameras such as intra-oral ones, large screen displays, computer-generated X-ray images and dental lasers constitute a few examples of appropriate equipment.
In case something cannot be created on the premises, a technologically advanced laboratory should collaborate with the dentist by using the best materials.
6. Community involvement
Finally, a good dentist should be active outside the practice and interact with the local community and charities.