You aren’t stuck with one dentist. You can, if you want, see as many different dentists as you want. There is no law that says you have to keep seeing the same dentist over and over again.
Yet, most people will see the same dentist for years once they’ve decided on one. Choosing a dentist may not be a legal commitment, but it feels like a commitment, and most patients will visit the same dentist for years before making a switch.
That is why it is so important to find the right dentist for you from the beginning, so that – when you commit – you know you’re getting the treatment you want from the Portville dentist that you trust the most.
What Do You Need in a Dentist?
If you’re looking for a new dentist in Portville or elsewhere, here are several considerations to make before you select one that is right for you.
- Logistics – Hitting the Fine Points
Patients are expected to visit the dentist at least once every 6 months. But not everyone loves going to the dentist (it’s okay, we’re not offended). So it’s important to make sure that you choose a dentist that meets all your logistical requirements – such as one that is close to work or home, one that offers the payment, insurance, or financing options you expect to need, and one that has the space and time to take you.
If any of these are missing, you may be more likely to skip necessary appointments or find excuses not to get the treatment you need. It’s important to make sure those are non-issues from the beginning.
- The Services and Technology to Meet Your Needs
Some patients are only looking for a general dentist to help with cleanings and assessments. But others may need someone that works with families, or offers cosmetic dentistry, or has technology available for treatments that the patient expects to need in the future. It’s better to find a dentist that offers those services in the beginning so that you’re not seeking out another dentist later.
- General Comfort
As dentists, we want you to feel comfortable coming in any time you need a treatment/exam or if you’re feeling like something is wrong with your oral health. While part of that comfort is going to be based on the quality of the care, another part of it is just a feeling – a “vibe,” if you will. That’s why we encourage you, if you’re seeking out dentists, to come into the office just to see how you feel. That way, you can get an idea of how comfortable you are with us, even before you receive care.
- The Dentist(s) and Staff
Of course, the quality of the dentist and the team are going to be most important. We strongly encourage you to ask us any questions that you have that will help you feel comfortable with choosing our office. These include where we received our degree, how many years we have been in business, whether we have any specialties, if we have any before/after photos, and more.
Dr. Hardt and his team want to show you why we have become Porterville’s favorite dentist, and how we can help you with all of your dental needs. Contact our office today to learn more, or to schedule your first appointment. 559-784-6523
