Time To Choose A New Dentist? If So, Check Out Our Three-Step Guide!

Finding Your Ideal Dentist: A Simple Three-Step Guide

As much as it is good to find a new dentist, there are several factors involved. You may have relocated to a new region, or maybe the dental services you require and the ones you want have changed. In any case, choosing a new dentist is one of the most important decisions for you and your family. You are putting your health in the hands of someone you have never met. 

Recommendations from friends and family are a good place to start, and combine them with a search online. But remember that what is good for the goose may not necessarily be good for the gander. It is not always easy to determine how good a dental practice is just by going through their website. Here is a three-part blueprint that will enable you to make a more informed decision about it and save you time.

Step 1: Define Your Basic Criteria

Step 2: Ask Questions

Researching Your Potential Dentists: Key Questions to Ask

Once you have narrowed your list to three or four potential dental care providers, it’s time to conduct your initial research over the phone. The following questions can help you assess whether a dental practice is a good fit for you and can meet your specific needs.

1. What should I expect during the first exam?

A thorough answer should outline an in-depth discussion with the dentist regarding your general and oral health history. This includes any concerns, existing health conditions, and medications you are currently taking. Additionally, expect an examination of your teeth and gums, which may involve periodontal charting, X-rays, and an oral cancer screening.

2. Will the clinic staff review my treatment options and costs before any work is done?

Having all the necessary financial information is essential before making treatment decisions. The right office will work with you to provide an accurate breakdown of your dental benefits and offer pre-treatment out-of-pocket estimates based on your specific insurance plan.



3. What are the hours of operation, and how are patient emergencies handled outside of regular hours?

Finding a practice with office hours that fit your schedule is crucial. Additionally, inquire about the next available appointments, as many busy practices may be booked months in advance. Most dentists will have arrangements with a colleague or an emergency referral service for after-hours care in an emergency. It’s wise to ask about their emergency protocols to ensure you’re covered when unexpected issues arise.

Additional Considerations

When evaluating potential dental care providers, pay attention to the answers you receive and how the front office staff treats you during your initial call. Courteous and helpful staff members can play a crucial role in alleviating dental anxiety and enhancing your overall experience. A friendly demeanor and respectful interactions often indicate a supportive office environment, suggesting that this practice may be a good match for you and your family.



During the call, note how the staff responds to your inquiries. Are they attentive and patient, providing thorough answers without rushing you? A dental practice that prioritizes clear communication and customer service is more likely to develop a positive atmosphere during your visits.

If you find yourself satisfied with the responses to your questions and the staff members were welcoming and accommodating, it’s a promising sign that you may have found the right fit. Building a relationship with your dentist and their team is essential for long-term dental care.

Once you’ve gathered the information you need and assessed the overall vibe of the practice, it’s likely time to schedule an appointment to meet your new dentist. This first visit will allow you to experience the office firsthand, further solidifying your choice and ensuring your dental health is in capable hands.

Step 3: Check it Out in Person

Confirming Your Choice: What to Look for During Your First Office Visit

That is why you should be very careful to make the right decision the first time you visit the dentist. A clean and tidy reception area that is well stocked and an efficient receptionist are signs of good practice. Consider the type of welcome received on arrival, the time taken to be attended to, and the waiting duration before the treatment is completed. Though it is impossible to expect the practice timetable to remain inviolable, it is quite logical to assume that you will be informed of the delay within several minutes after your arrival.



Once you’re in the examination room, take note of your comfort level with the environment and the staff. After the exam, reflect on the thoroughness of your initial assessment:

• Did the dentist thoroughly examine all your teeth for decay and assess the condition of any existing fillings, crowns, or dental work?
• Did the hygienist comprehensively evaluate your gum health using a periodontal probe to measure pocket depth and determine where the gums attach to each tooth root?
• Were you screened for signs of oral cancer or other diseases affecting your mouth, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums?
• Were X-rays taken and reviewed with you to provide additional diagnostic insights if necessary?

Lastly, after your test, the dentist should prescribe a plan that the two of you should follow in the next appointment. This may be making an appointment for a simple check-up or a more detailed dental procedure. Nevertheless, you should be given a clear description of the nature of the next appointment, its risks, and its alternatives, as well as the costs and benefits of the next appointment. Before leaving, ensure that the office gives you an understanding of how they process insurance and billing. 

You will be well-equipped to find a dentist who suits your requirements by asking these questions and being very observant during your tour. This way, you’ll have confidence in your decision and leave your oral health and smile in the hands of a team of specialists who are right for you.

The first criterion most people probably consider when deciding upon a new dentist is the location of his or her practice. Having an office near your home, workplace, or your child’s school is also important to minimize the problem of keeping appointments. Dr. Maggie's dental clinic will serve you well if you are a Colorado state resident from Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Greenwood Village, Centennial, or Cherry Hills. 

The second one concerns any particular requirements you or your family may have. For example, you may need a dentist who would perform dental procedures such as implants or dental bridges. Or you may wish to find a cosmetic dentist who will improve the aesthetics of your teeth and smile. Fortunately, Dr. Maggie, AAACD, and her team at Designer Smiles of Colorado are well-experienced and capable of handling all your general and aesthetic dental care. 

The third criterion should be the dentist's license, compliance with the set standard of quality, and hygiene and safety standards. Dr. Maggie is one of three dentists in the Front Range to have been recognized by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry with accreditation (What is AAACD?). Besides her membership, Dr. Maggie has written for The Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry and lectures at her old school, the University of Colorado. She continues her education by taking numerous advanced continuing education courses annually, including specific training from pioneer biomimetic dentist Dr. Pascal Magne.