Finding a good local dentist is essential to achieving optimal oral health. However, you may not know exactly what you’re looking for. If that’s the case, you’ve come to the right place!
Though it may be tempting to choose a local dentist that’s most conveniently located, we encourage people to dig a little deeper. After all, you are trusting the dentist will your oral, and parts of your overall, health. You wouldn’t settle for just any doctor, so we don’t expect you to settle for any dentist either.
Continue reading to learn about the five most important qualities to look for in a local dentist.
1. Listens attentively
Great dentists have practiced and continue to perfect their listening skills. How can they provide their patients with excellent care if they don’t know their patients’ needs, concerns, and preferences?
Prospective patients can schedule an initial consultation with a local dentist (usually for free) to get to know the dentist better. During this time, pay attention to how well the dentist listens. He or she will usually ask follow-up questions and repeat back what you’re saying to ensure she understands what you are saying.
2. Respects patient’s time and resources
The majority of your time at the dentist shouldn’t be spent in the waiting room. Dentists and their team members should be aware of how long each type of appointment takes, so their other patients aren’t left waiting instead of being at work, school, or taking care of other responsibilities.
Additionally, the dentist ought to be aware of your financial state so she can recommend treatments that work for your budget. No dentist should push their patients to undergo costly treatments except in extenuating circumstances. If that is the case, the dental team should work with you to create an affordable payment plan.
3. Educates their patients
Trust has to be built. To do that, dentists must be open and transparent about their patient’s treatments. Plus, patient education is imperative for helping patients gain and maintain oral health.
Great dentists are always willing to take the time it takes to explain the patient’s dental problem and the different treatment options.
4. Offers a wide range of services
Patients should make finding a “one-stop-shop” local dentist one of their top priorities. In other words, find a dentist who offers several types of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures to patients of all ages.
You, your parents, and your children should all be able to receive the care you need from the same dentist. This makes oral healthcare convenient, simple, and stress-free.
5. Uses the latest technological advances
Modern dentistry utilizes technology like dental lasers to provide patients with minimally invasive, beneficial treatments. These types of technology create a safer and more comfortable environment for all patients because scalpels and drills are used less often than in traditional dental practices.
Additionally, modern dentists typically use low radiation digital radiography as another way to provide safe care to their patients.
Your Local Dentist in Austin, TX
If you’re searching for a local dentist in Austin, consider Dr. Helen Ragsdale. Not only does she and her practice possess these qualities, she offers so much more.
Check out this review from one of our most recent patients:
“Most exceptional dental experience ever. Everyone in the office is welcoming, kind, and caring. Dr. Ragsdale’s concern and objective are to get and keep your mouth healthy while providing high-quality care on your teeth. Thank you, Dr. Ragsdale, and the rest of the team. See you all very soon!! P.S I recommend Austin Laser Dentist to anyone who needs dental work.” -Phillip C.
Call (512) 346-4690 today to schedule your initial consultation.
