Did you know that there were 201,927 dentists working in the United States in 2021? 

With so many dental professionals to choose from, finding the right local dentist can be a challenge. While they are all fully qualified, not all of them will meet your individual needs and preferences.

How can you find the best local dentist who will keep your teeth gleaming and healthy for the years to come? 

Let’s take a look at some key points to look for.

Convenience Matters

The recommendation is to see our dentist every 6 months. This regular routine helps your dentist to identify any dental or oral health issues before they become too serious.

The dentist also has the chance to discuss your oral care regime and give you pointers to keep your mouth healthy.

To stick to this routine, your dentist needs to be in a convenient location. That may mean close to where you live, where your kids go to school, or where you work. 

Also, think about their opening times. Do they fit with your work schedule or your kids’ schedules? The more convenient the dentist is to get to, the more regularly you will go for checkups.

Consider Their Specialties

The best dentist for you is one that can meet your family’s specific oral health needs.

If you have children, they may feel more comfortable visiting a pediatric dentist. These specialist dentists undertake years of additional training. They can put children at ease, and their dental offices are child-friendly.

They can advise on the particular needs of children’s developing teeth.

If you suffer from severe gum disease, you may need ongoing help from a periodontist. A regular dentist may not be able to provide the dental treatments you need.

You may need orthodontic treatment or a specific dental procedure. An orthodontist helps to correct issues with jaw and tooth misalignment. They can also help people who suffer from sleep apnea. 

Time for Fieldwork

Don’t be afraid to call dentists and schedule a visit. Prepare a list of questions to ask them. Also, see how comfortable you feel in their dental office.

Ask the dentist if they have the experience and equipment to meet your needs.

Get Recommendations

The dental industry knows that word of mouth is still one of their most important forms of marketing.

When we get a recommendation from a trusted friend or family member, we feel much more confident. Put a message on your WhatsApp or Facebook groups asking for recommendations. 

Friends who are satisfied with their dentists will be happy to share. On the other hand, you might get a few tips on who to avoid!

Find the Best Local Dentist for You

The best local dentist is out there; you just need to do a little homework.

Make sure that they can take care of your particular oral health needs. Choose one that’s convenient for you to visit regularly. Consider your kids so they get into good oral health habits.

If you’ve enjoyed this article, we’ve got plenty more for you! Head over to our Health section today.