How to Choose the Right Dentist for You

Are you on the hunt for a dentist in the Oakville area? At River Oaks Dental we know how hard the task can be, which is why we are sharing tips on how you can find the right dentist for you.

Reputation

A reliable dentist should have a good reputation within their community. You can ask your friends, family, and coworkers which dentists they go to and do some research on their suggestions – online reviews can be excellent for this.

You can also call your local or provincial dental society to get a list of dentists that are practicing in your area.

Personal Rapport & Comfort Level

The relationship you have with your dentist is an important one, making one of the most essential things to consider is how comfortable you feel with them. At your initial consultation or appointment with the new dentist, consider the following:

Do they take the time to listen to you as you explain symptoms and ask questions? Do you have fears or anxieties you’d be comfortable expressing, and do they answer your questions about procedures you’ll need effectively? Does the dentist seem to hear and understand your concerns?

Specialties, Services & Emergency Care

Because of the recent advancements being in dental technology, dentists can now offer a wide variety of services. Do the dentists you are considering offer comprehensive services, such as preventive, restorative, and cosmetic treatments? What about emergency care?

If you or a family member has a specific oral health issue, it might be useful to opt for a dentist that specializes in that area.

Location & Office Hours

Is your new dentist close to where you live or work? Can you access them by public transit? If you drive, is there on-site parking? Do the hours work with your schedule?

Accessibility

For patients with special needs, it’s important to make sure that your dental office can accommodate them. From physical accessibility to dental sedation services, this is an important aspect of comprehensive dental care.

Costs & Money Matters

The costs of dental services often vary by practice. Does your dentist follow the current Dental Association Fee Guide for your province? Do they accept your insurance and can they file your insurance claim electronically?

Do they offer multiple payment options (personal checks, credit cards, interest-free payment plans)?

While your health is the most important element, money can also be a problem. Don’t hesitate to ask for an estimate for any procedures you require. Our administrative team can address any questions or concerns you might have.

Scheduling

How does the office manage appointment scheduling, reminders, cancellations, and other issues?

The Office

Is the dental office clean and orderly? Are the receptionists/administrative team welcoming?

Are you able to visit the office before scheduling your first appointment to help make your decision? You can visit us at River Oaks Dental at a pre-scheduled time to get to know our office and ask any questions you may have.

The Dentist’s Approach to Care

When it comes to choosing a dentist, it’s also important to confirm that your new dentist has the same values you do. Talk to the dentist to learn about his or her approach to their dentist-patient relationships, and whether you two would be a good match.

Welcoming new patients in Oakville

Our dentists and team are welcoming new patients to our office. If you are looking for a new dentist in Oakville, we hope you’ll consider us!