How Do I Find The Right Dentist?

You phone up to make an appointment for your regular check-up at the dentist.

The receptionist regrets to inform you that your chosen dentist is no longer with the practice.

Either they have retired, moved to a different clinic, or selfishly gone and kicked the bucket on you!

The reality is that at some point, you are going to have to shop around for a new dentist.

This begs the question, ‘How do I find the right dentist?’

‘How do I find the right dentist?’ can sometimes be a difficult one to answer.

Well, first and foremost, it’s all about YOU:

‘The Patient Journey’

This is a term used to describe your customer service experience, from your initial enquiries to the practice, right the way through to any follow-up care that is arranged for you after any treatment that you receive.

Good dentists will have set up their practice in such a way that you feel welcomed before you even meet them.

Feeling anxious about going to the dentist? You’re not alone! Good dentists are pretty much always well able to help you be at ease before, during and after your appointment.

The Patient Journey really begins with your first appointment. You should not feel pressured into any treatment.

Think of it as a friendly chat; with the dentist having time to compile comprehensive information about your teeth, your general health, your expectations, and any anxieties you may hold with regard to dental treatment.

It is your opportunity to see if this will be a ‘good fit’.

Secondly, always check out:

Their Reputation

This is the biggie for a lot of people; word of mouth referral. Reputation is everything, and past customer reviews can shed a lot of light on a dentistry practice.

‘Look for a dental team that includes a dental hygienist. This indicates that the dentist is focused on helping you to avoid all the dental problems that you do not want, and not simply wanting you to return in the future with problems that may have been easily prevented.’

Also, seeing the word ‘(Hons)’ after the dentist’s qualification is a great sign as it means within their initial intensive 5-year training, they were top of their class.

Finally, beware of dentists working for corporate clinics and health insurers who are given incentives to work through patients quickly and focus on their relationship with the health fund or corporation rather than you, the patient!

At Forster Dental Centre, we are a family-owned local business. We are committed to providing every patient with care so that you can maintain healthy teeth and a beautiful smile for life!

We understand the patient journey.

‘Forster Dentist Dr Richard Oxenbould, and dental hygienist Louise are proud to welcome you to their family-friendly dental centre in Wallis St Forster.’

Our team understands that for many, visiting the dentist can be filled with dental anxiety and uncertainty… that is why we pride ourselves on truly listening to the needs and concerns of all our patients and aim to provide you with the personalised attention you and your family deserves.

Why not give your local dentist, Forster Dental Centre, a call and book in for your next dental check-up or dental treatment now on (02) 6555 5554.

We look forward to seeing you soon.