A Second Opinion: 5 Signs It’s Time To Change Your Dentist

Dentists provide essential oral care services to their patients. Not all dentists are equal in the services and care they provide. It is important individuals know the signs it is time for them to switch dental offices. A person must become their own advocate and work to ensure they receive the dental care they need for their beautiful smile.

No Dentist Is Perfect

It is important individuals realize that no dentist is perfect. Dentists must also realize some patients simply are not going to approve of the services they are provided while in the dental chair and may want another dentist. Individuals need to make sure they feel comfortable receiving care from their dentist. A dentist needs to be caring and offer the best treatments for their patients. If the dentist does not offer these, patients should look elsewhere for their dental services.

5 Signs It Is Time to Change Dentists

It can sometimes be difficult for a person to know if they should change dentists. Sometimes, people wait way too long to make the change because they feel unsure. If an individual notices any of the following signs, it may be time for them to consider seeing another dentist, at least for a second opinion.

1. If the dentist offers poor service that does not meet the American Dental Association standards, it is essential a person seeks another dentist right away. There is no excuse for poor dental service. A patient’s oral health should be the top priority for a dentist.
2. When a dentist does not refer to a patient’s past medical history before beginning treatment, this is a problem that cannot be ignored. A dentist that is unaware of their patient’s history is likely to give ineffectual treatments.
3. A dentist must have a friendly personality and they must offer a professional and comforting approach to any dental care procedure. When dentists exhibit inappropriate behavior or make a person feel uncomfortable, patients should seek another dentist for care.
4. Does the dentist tell their patients they do not need a specialist? Some dentists mistakenly believe they should never send their patients to a specialist. Specialty dentists require many hours of training to perform their specialties. If the dentist attempts to encourage a patient to avoid specialists and receive treatment from them, the patient should go elsewhere for treatment.
5. Everyone has the right to seek a second opinion. If the dentist seems to get offended because a person asks for one, the individual should be concerned. This is not the behavior of a professional.

Take Time to Find the Right Dentist

Finding a dentist takes time and should never be rushed. An individual needs to research their options and learn as much as possible about the available dentists in their area. To get started on research, it is helpful if a person asks friends and family for recommendations. This information will give a person a foundation on which to start their research.

Schedule an Appointment

Once a person has found a potential dentist, they should schedule a consultation appointment or a cleaning. It is important to learn as much as possible about the dentist, so individuals should ask questions. If the dentist seems rushed or has a poor attitude, continue the search.

A dentist should make their patients feel comfortable. They should understand the needs of their patients and fulfill them. If the dentist cannot take care of the treatment needs of their patients, they should be willing to offer a referral to a specialist.