There are now over 182,000 dental practices and 955,400 dentists in the US. Before you start searching “dentist near me Lakewood CO,” it helps to know what to look for. Otherwise, you could choose a dentist who lacks the experience and expertise you need.
Here are seven tips that can help you narrow down your options.
With these tips, you can find the best dentist near Lakewood, CO. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve chosen a dentist Lakewood residents trust. Then, you can schedule an appointment feeling comfortable with your choice.
Your Lakewood dentist will ensure your oral care is a priority.
Start searching! Learn how to choose a dentist with these tips today.
1. Check Their Credentials
First, head online and Google “dentist near me Lakewood CO.” Make a list of potential options to research further. You might want to consider speaking with friends and family members, too.
They could refer you to dentists in Colorado they already know and trust. Choosing a dentist based on a personal recommendation can save you time. You’ll also feel reassured knowing someone you trust has already vetted dentists in the area.
As you research each dentist near Lakewood, CO, consider their credentials. You’ll want to find someone with years of training.
Otherwise, you might choose a dentist who lacks the education and training necessary to provide the best possible services.
Make sure each dentist on your list graduated from an accredited dental school. Consider how recently they graduated, too.
You’ll want to find a dentist with up-to-date knowledge and years of experience.
Choose dentists in Colorado who prioritized continuing education. These dentists remain up-to-date with the latest procedures and techniques. They’ll prioritize offering their patients top-notch services.
Otherwise, you might choose a family dentist who uses outdated information.
Learn more about the dentist’s professional history. Do they participate in any dental organizations? Look for someone who has won accolades over the years, too.
These dentists strive to become better in their field.
Finding the right dentist doesn’t have to feel stressful. Make sure each dentist is board certified and offers proof of their credentials. Knowing they’re certified will give you peace of mind.
2. Consider Communication Skills
As you search for “a dentist near me Lakewood,” learn more about each dentist’s communication style, too.
Schedule a consultation appointment with a few dentists in Colorado. Then, discuss your specific dental health concerns. For example, you might want to discuss orthodontic goals or find ways to improve your home care.
Then, listen to how the dentist answers your questions. Are they easy to understand? Do you feel like they’re engaged in the conversation, or do they speak over you?
If the dentist tries to rush you out the door, scratch them off your list. Instead, choose someone who shows an interest in your needs.
3. Consider Their Reputation
About 93% of people read reviews of local businesses to determine their quality. When vetting each family dentist Lakewood has to offer, check for reviews. Reviews can help you learn more from parents who were once in your shoes.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve chosen family dentistry Lakewood residents already trust.
You can check the Better Business Bureau and Google My Business websites. Check online dental directories as well.
Many dentists post reviews on their websites as well.
As you read reviews, pay attention to the positive and negative comments. Was the dentist professional and knowledgeable?
It’s normal to find a few negative reviews. If the bad reviews outweigh the good ones, however, scratch that dentist off your list.
4. Review Their Services
When learning how to choose a dentist, it’s important to consider the services you need. Are you looking for a specialty service, such as cosmetic dentistry? Maybe you want to find a practice that offers orthodontics, too.
Finding dentists in Colorado who offer the services you need can simplify your life. You won’t have to visit multiple professionals in the area. Instead, you can visit a single practice for all the oral care your family needs.
For example, you might need dental bridges, Invisalign, gum disease treatment, and teeth whitening services.
Review the dentist’s services to ensure they offer the help you need.
5. Check With Your Insurance
You’re not limited to choosing a dentist within your insurance network. However, it can help you narrow down your options. Check your insurance plan during your search.
Do the Lakewood dentists on your list accept your dental insurance? If not, you might want to scratch them off your list. Otherwise, ask each dentist about their payment plans.
You might find a family dentist that suits your budget, even if your insurance doesn’t cover their services.
6. Determine Their Location
Before finding the right dentist, you’ll want to make sure they’re located in a safe area. Otherwise, you might feel uncomfortable taking your kids in for an appointment. Google “dentist near me Lakewood” and check the map.
Which practices are near your home or work? You might want to choose a practice located near your child’s school.
Choosing a practice based on its location can make your life easier in the long run. You won’t struggle to take your children in for appointments.
7. Prioritize Your Comfort
Consider scheduling a cleaning appointment with one or two dentists on your list.
You can learn a lot about the dentist and their practice from that experience. For example, was the practice clean? Was the staff friendly and professional?
Ask the dentist any lingering questions you have. If you’re comfortable visiting them for a cleaning, consider trusting them with more intensive services in the future.
Brush Up: 7 Tips for Finding a Dentist Near Me Lakewood CO
Finding the right dentist doesn’t have to feel like a grueling process. Instead, use these tips when searching for “a dentist near me Lakewood CO.” With these tips, you can narrow down your options with ease.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve chosen the best family dentist around.
Eager to schedule your first appointment? We’re happy to help.
Contact us today to get started.