How to Find a Dentist/Resources for Parents
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Smile Vermont
How
do I find a dentist?
- Ask family, friends, neighbors or co-workers for
recommendations.
- Ask your family physician or local pharmacist.
- If you’re moving, your current dentist may
be able to make a recommendation.
- Call or write your local or state dental society.
Your local and state dental societies also may be
listed in the telephone directory under “dentists”
or “associations.”
- Use American Dental Association's ADA Member Directory to search
for dentists in your area.
- You
may want to call or visit more than one dentist
before making your decision. Dental care is a very
personalized service that requires a good relationship
between the dentist and the patient.
What should I look for when choosing a dentist?
- Is
the appointment schedule convenient for you?
- Is the office easy to get to from your home or job?
- Does the office appear to be clean, neat and orderly?
- Was your medical and dental history recorded and
placed in a permanent file?
- Does the dentist explain techniques that will help
you prevent dental health problems? Is dental health
instruction provided?
- Are special arrangements made for handling emergencies
outside of office hours? (Most dentists make arrangements
with a colleague or emergency referral service if
they are unable to tend to emergencies.)
- Is information provided about fees and payment plans
before treatment is scheduled?
- Is your dentist a member of the American Dental Association? All ADA member
dentists voluntarily agree to abide by the high
ethical standards reflected in the ADA Principles
of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct as a
condition of their membership.
- You
and your dentist are partners in maintaining your
oral health. Take time to ask questions and take
notes if that will help you remember your dentist’s
advice.
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