Going to the dentist isn’t fun. You’re sitting in a chair, under the bright spotlight, as the dentist hovers with pointy stainless-steel dental tools. Developing a long-term relationship with a trusted family dentist can help ease anxiety. And if you don’t yet have someone looking after your dental health, you may be interested in learning how to find a family dentist. Thankfully, it’s not a complicated matter. It requires a little bit of research and a willingness to have the necessary conversations. You want to make sure the dentist you choose is right for you – whether it’s a family dentist in Lucas, TX, or a location closer to home.
What is Family Dentistry?
Family dentistry focuses on providing general dental care to both adults and children. The family dentist is akin to a primary care physician, responsible for your overall care and directing you to specialists as needed.
Having a go-to family dentist increases the likelihood of receiving routine care. You know what to expect in terms of a chair-side manner, and you’ll receive regular reminders that it’s time for a check-up. There is power in knowing.
Having a trusted relationship with a family dentist also raises the likelihood of preventative care. Regular dental check-ups help spot problems before they become crises.
How to Find a Family Dentist
Finding the right family dentist requires a little bit of work but it isn’t difficult. You start by considering the basic variables of your life and then examine the provider’s professional’s credentials. Considerations include:
- Geography. Choose a provider closer to home or work so you can get to appointments easier.
- Hours. Knowing when your dentist is open is an important part of learning how to find a family dentist
- Insurance. Many plans only pay full benefits to in-network providers. Make sure your choice is part of the insurance company’s network if costs are a major issue.
- Referrals. Get recommendations from friends and family or the local dental society.
- Credentials. Is the dentist a member in good standing of the American Dental Association?
If possible, you may also want to consider a pre-treatment consultation. Gather your records, meet the dentist and his or her staff, and talk about their approach to care. Know what you are getting into when you are learning how to find a family dentist.
Benefits of Regular Care
Trust and confidence are a crucial element in figuring out how to find a family dentist. This is someone who will be taking care of you over the long-haul. The more things go well with your dentist, the more likely it is you will keep up with regular care. And regular care is crucial in spotting problems early, before they become major crises.
Regular visits, including cleanings, involving identifying and removing harmful plaque and tartar and treating cavities before they start to disrupt your quality of life. A regular relationship with the dentist also can be helpful on more serious topics. The dentist can be the first line of defense in spotting signs of oral cancer, for instance.
The Best Care
In learning how to find a family dentist, think about how your relationship will evolve over the years. At first, you might be looking for the best adult dentist in Lucas TX, or a location closer to home. As your family grows, your interests might turn to seeking a pediatric dentist in Lucas, TX, or other locations. Whatever your needs, you are looking for a healthcare professional who can take care of the entire family. Working closely together with your family dentist, you can keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime.