Seeking a dentist in an emergency should not be the only time you go looking for one. In a panicked and stressed state of mind, you are likely to settle for a local dentist who might not be the right fit for you, have the correct experience, lack the qualifications or charge you exorbitantly. If it is your child in need, you want the best for them, and a sub-par dental practitioner without compassion might scar your offspring, and leave them scarred with a dental phobia.
Our team at Sheen Dental are trained, friendly and can handle any situation brought to our clinic. If you are not in the area to consult with our dentist in Richmond, we can offer advice and provide handy tips to help you with your search in finding the right dental practitioner.
Test the waters
Going to the same dentist all your life is no longer the norm - the dental practitioner of your childhood might not suit your unique problems. The best way to find the right fit is by shopping around. Phone around, consult with potentials and ask questions.
While at the respective clinics, ask yourself the following:
What is the waiting room? Is it light and airy or dark, stuffy and cramped?
Were you seen to reasonably quickly or was there a long wait?
Was the treatment area clean?
Were the tools and equipment modern and new?
Did you feel comfortable asking questions and did you receive answers that satisfied you?
If you answered “no” to any of the above, then it is best that you carry on with your search.
Qualifications and experience
You want a highly qualified professional with years of experience under his or her belt, not an ill-trained graduate fresh out of dental school. Ask questions about their education and for how long they have been practising if you have concerns.
Another way to find out if they are licenced professionals is to consult with the licencing board. If they are not listed, report them so that others do not fall victim to potential malpractice.
Phone a friend
If searching online has not been successful, ask friends for referrals or seek out personal testimonials from past patients. You will likely trust their feedback more than information on a website.
Opening hours and days
You might have found someone you have a great rapport with, but that will be immaterial if their opening times do not align with your hectic schedule.
You should also enquire about policies relating to “after-work hours”. Will your dentist in Richmond be available when needed and willing to assist in an emergency or refer you to the nearest hospital?
Nitty Gritties
Remember that the costs of procedures and treatments vary between clinics. Before you get started, ask for a ballpark figure of what the final expense might be. If you have a dental plan, it is likely that your insurer will cover the cost, but in the event of more significant treatments, i.e. root canal surgery, you might be expected to pay out of pocket.
Our dentist, along with several other dental clinics in London, will provide you with outstanding service at competitive rates. But always err on the side of caution when searching for a medical professional - do not opt for cost over quality. The consequences of using the services of a cheap dentist are enormous.