Whether you’ve moved to a new city or you just aren’t satisfied with your current dentist, finding a great dentist can be difficult and overwhelming. Many people choose a dentist based on two factors: proximity and insurance. While these two things are important, they shouldn’t be the primary determining factors.
In our opinion, the thing that should determine which dentist a patient chooses is the dentist’s training, experience, and overall office environment. Continue reading to learn why these are important and exactly what qualities to look for.
Training
All dentists are required to complete the same schooling, but what happens after is where dentists really begin to hone their craft. Every year, dentists are required to complete a certain number of training hours. During this time, many dentists gain expert knowledge in specific areas of the dental field. To confirm their training, dentists become members and fellows of different organizations.
For example, our “dentist near me”, Dr. Helen Ragsdale has studied aesthetics at Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, attained fellow status from the World Clinic Laser Institute, and has completed advanced training in laser dentistry, sedation dentistry, and full reconstructive and rehabilitative dentistry.
Experience
For most people, its easier to trust a dentist with more experience rather than one with less, and for good reason! The saying, “practice makes perfect” is accurate. While most dentists leave dental school with loads of knowledge and skill, dentists who have been actively working in the field for years gain experience that cannot be matched.
To learn about Dr. Ragsdale’s experience, check out her bio here.
Office Environment
Many dentists offer free initial consultations where a patient can visit the dentist’s office in person. This gives potential patients the chance to meet the dentist and dental team and learn about how the office is run.
A major component to look for when searching for a “dentist near me” is patient comfort. Ask yourself these questions:
- Are the team members friendly and warm?
- Has effort been put forth to make the office comfortable?
- Are there private operatories?
- What does the dentist offer to patients during treatment?
At Austin Laser Dentist, our team offers blankets, pillows, aromatherapy, sound therapy, TVs, and headphones to help patients feel at ease throughout their visit.
We strive to make every patient feel welcome, known, and prioritized! We happily work with patients who struggle with dental fear and anxiety.
Technology
Dental technology is important because it’s how dentists provide minimally invasive, innovative treatments to patients. Many out-of-date techniques include using a scalpel and drill, but with modern dental technology, dentists utilize tools like dental lasers.
Not only will the operation feel much more comfortable, but it is also safer, more sanitary, and much less scary. At Austin Laser Dentist, we use hard and soft tissue dental lasers for various restorative and cosmetic procedures. This is just another way that we prioritize patient comfort!
Services
If you have plans to improve the aesthetics of your smile, or if you’re prone to cavities or gum disease, it’s imperative that you find a dentist that can offer the services you need. To reduce the risk of having to find another dentist, choose one that offers various preventive, restorative, and cosmetic services. This will ensure that the “dentist near me” you choose can be your forever dentist!
Your “Dentist Near Me”
Dr. Helen Ragsdale offers all types of gentle, modern dental services. Her track record speaks for itself. To schedule an initial consultation, contact our friendly dental team today at (512) 346-4690.
