For many, even the thoughts of going to the dentist are enough to make them cringe. The noise of the drill, the strange odors and perhaps the possibility of pain often are the causes of considerable anxiety. This may be the case but avoiding the dentist is one of the worst things anyone can do. Regular checkups and professional cleanings are an integral part of maintaining oral health as well as health in general. Choosing a good Boston general dentist is important; asking others who they use and asking their opinion is an excellent way to start looking for a dentist that can become a lifelong part of your overall dental health.
It helps to narrow your search, as you are looking for a general dentist rather than a specific specialist, look for one that can provide dental care for your whole family. If you eventually need specialist care your general dentist will arrange it, right now you are looking for a dentist that provides preventative care.
As you continue looking you will eventually develop a list of possibilities, these names will have come from friends, people you work with and other sources. Call the offices of these candidates and make arrangements to go in and have an informal, but frank conversation. The first impression that you get of a Boston general dentist is exceedingly important, it is at this time that you can determine if the candidate appears to be accommodating, has good “bedside manners” and offers all the dental care and procedures that you feel are important to you and your family members. During your visit try to spend a few minutes with the staff as well as the dental hygienist, ask them questions that are of interest to you and see how they respond. Thank everyone for their time and attention, now you can make an educated decision.
Many people have dental insurance; if you are one of them make sure the dentist accepts it. Ask the prices for various dental services and procedures, find out what percentage of these costs are covered by your insurance, find out if it is your responsibility to claim or is this done by the dentist’s staff?
If you are moving into the area from elsewhere, your current dentist may be able to make a recommendation to a similar practitioner in your new area. Of course, you will want to include this recommendation to your short list, but ultimately, you’re the patient and the choice of a Boston general dentist is yours.
