The invention of the internet has made searching for quality service providers, clothing, tools, doctors, and dentists easier than ever. However, that doesn’t mean you should always choose the first option that pops up on Google.
When searching for a new, high-quality dentist, typing “dentist near me” in the search bar is just the first step. Unfortunately, great dental care isn’t found in every dental practice, but with a little effort and research, you can find a dentist near you who prioritizes patient care, comfort, and satisfaction.
Here are five things to look for when searching for a dentist near me:
1. High ratings on Google
No one can tell you more about a dentist than a patient. To find Google reviews and ratings on a dentist, type his or her name and location (ex: Dr. Helen Ragsdale Austin, TX) in the search bar and click on the star rating on the right side of the screen.
Here, you should find several reviews that discuss the dentist’s approach to patient care, the quality of care he or she provides, and the patients’ overall experiences. Be sure to read several of the reviews to get a realistic idea of who the dentist is and what her office environment is like.
2. A wide range of services
Patients should be able to get the dental care they need from a dentist they know and an environment they are comfortable in. Though there will always be services that are better provided by a specialist (like TMJ surgery), most procedures should be done in house.
Find a dentist who offers several preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental procedures. This ensures that you’ll receive the care you need for all types of dental issues.
Additionally, make sure the dentist offers the treatments you need the most. For example:
- Periodontal disease treatment
- Dental implants
- Teeth whitening
- Dental crown
- Veneers
3. Expertise that meets your needs
Do you need a dentist that specializes in cosmetic procedures? Gum disease treatment? Or providing conservative treatments? Many dentists can perform these procedures, but they don’t all offer the same quality.
For instance, Dr. Ragsdale laser dentist which means she provides conservative, non-invasive treatment options for gum disease, cavities, and various cosmetic procedures. These treatments are beneficial for every patient but especially those who suffer from dental fear and anxiety.
4. A priority of patient comfort
Laser dentistry is just one way a dentist can show that they care about the patient experience. Creating an environment where patients feel comfortable includes:
- A welcoming dental team
- Private operatories
- Free Wi-Fi
- Pillows and blankets
- Sedation options
- Music and TVs
- Aromatherapy
Visiting the dentist should never be a dreadful experience. When a dentist prioritizes patient comfort, a dental appointment can feel more like going to the spa!
5. In-house dental plan
For patients who don’t have dental insurance, an in-house dental plan makes all the difference. Rather than paying full price for all services, patients can pay a membership fee, then receive discounts on various treatments.
At Austin Laser Dentist, we provide several dental plans for our patients to choose from. Every plan makes dental care more accessible and affordable for patients with all types of needs. Click here to learn more about the dental plan that we offer.
“Dentist near me” in Austin
Our Austin dentist meets all of these qualifications and more! Contact our friendly dental team today at (512) 346-4690 to schedule your initial consultation.
