What to Look for in A Modern Dental Practice

    /24-7PressRelease/ - GOLDEN, CO, August 31, 2007 - Everyone has teeth, and so everyone needs a dentist. But if you're searching for a dentist, how do you know where to start?

There are five important factors to look for when choosing the right dental practice:
· Your dental needs
· The dentist's education and skill
· The knowledge and caring attitude of the staff
· Office hours and flexibility to accommodate your schedule
· Insurance - Does this dentist accept yours? If not, do they offer payment plans or financial assistance?

Set up a consultation

Your experience with the dental office you have chosen begins when you call or email to schedule an appointment. Perhaps you've received recommendations from friends, family or coworkers, and your expectations are already high because of what others have said. That's a great place to start. If the front office staff treats you with care and respect, accommodates your scheduling needs, offers options, and patiently answers your questions, chances are that you'll continue to have a positive experience with this dental office.

Check the dentist's background and experience

Next you'll want to ask about the dentist's education and experience. Is the dentist from an accredited school, with the experience to perform the services you need? If you need specialized services, does the dentist have the further training and education to work with you on those needs as well? If you need cosmetic work or dental implants, choose a dentist that specializes in these procedures. Note that if you are seeking a dentist for your child, you may want to search for a pediatric dentist who has the experience to help your child feel at ease during dental visits.

How are the office staff?

Dentists do not work alone. They have a staff of dental hygienists, assistants and other office staff who work as a team to accomplish your dental goals. Pay attention to the office staff, with whom you will be working closely. The dental hygienist usually performs routine cleaning, the initial exam, and any x-rays required. Do you find the staff to be friendly and willing to work with you? Do they seem to work together in harmony as a cohesive team? Take a moment to look around the office and the exam rooms. Do they appear to be clean and private? Is the waiting room overflowing with people who seem to have been waiting a long time?

Ask about financing and insurance

Another very important consideration when choosing your dentist concerns your dental insurance. Most dentist offices will file insurance claims. However, some require that you pay for dental services upfront, then they will file the claim on your behalf and you will be reimbursed. Other offices will simply accept your co-pay and file the claim, then bill you for any portion not covered by your insurance. It is important to ask and be sure that you understand your financial obligation. If you do not have dental insurance, your dental office may offer an in-house payment plan or a financing program.

Today's modern dental office is a contemporary mix of features that ensures the patient receives the best in treatment options and courteous service. Taking the time to understand the philosophy, vision and policies of your dental office will help you walk out of that office with a smile that comes from great care and a great experience with your new dentist.

The offices of Dr. Michael Iott in New York City offer quality care, a friendly, knowledgeable staff and the most modern facilities. You can email him to find out more about scheduling a consultation.

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