When it comes to finding a trustworthy dentist, it's important to be careful and do your research. The National Anti-Fraud Health Care Association estimates that 3% of total health care spending in the United States is lost to fraud, so it's essential to take the necessary steps to ensure you're getting the best care possible. Start by being wary of those in the network and choosing a dentist based on referrals, not who your insurance company tells you to see. Avoid offices that advertise heavily and look for a name on the door.
Ask for a second opinion and inquire about how long your appointment will last. Check prices and do your research. 3D cone beam scans provide dentists with a more complex view of your smile, including the teeth, jaw, and other oral and facial structures. Look for a dentist who will meet with you wherever you are, listen to your concerns, and provide expert care with integrity and compassion.
The relationship between dentist and patient is incredibly important, so make sure there is healthy and open communication. Integrity should be one of the core values of any dentist you consider. Select up to three appointment dates in order of preference. If you see a brown spot, it most likely has at least one small cavity. Rarely does a patient go to their old dentist “that they had since they were 4 years old or to another dentist” and be told they “have no cavities”.
The only true way when there is a real difference of opinion is to go to a State Dental Society or State Dental Board and ask them what “a reasonable dentist would do in this situation”.Two honest dentists may disagree about whether a small fissure requires a filling or not, and all dentists follow a range of philosophies that range from conservative to aggressive in their treatments. Nowadays, more and more dentists recognize that adults with good oral hygiene only need to see the dentist once every 12 to 16 months. Most dentists strongly recommend not seeing a new dentist just because their insurance plan accepts it, and some warn against having full use of dental insurance.
