When the time comes to choose a Dentist Lubbock, many people turn to the phone book and choose the dentist based on who can see them the soonest. Choosing a dentist shouldn’t be an easy process though. You want to know you have someone who will work with you to preserve your oral health and one who is trained to deal with any problems you are experiencing. Here are some questions to ask when you call a dentist to help guarantee he or she will meet your needs.
1. What hours is the dentist available? If you work, this can be of great importance as you may need a dentist with night or weekend hours. This is especially true if you have a great deal of dental work which needs to be done as the hours spent in the dentist’s chair can quickly add up.
2. Are dental hygienists a part of the practice? What tasks do they normally take on and what tasks will only be handled by the dentist? Laws dictate what a dentist must do, but some dentists do more than this and you may feel more comfortable if this is the case.
3. What arrangements are in place in case I have a dental emergency outside of normal business hours? Is there someone I can call and how will I be charged for this? Life throws curves and one of these curves may involve a dental emergency. Make sure the dentist will be available or have someone in his or her place to help you until you can be seen for a regular visit.
4. Do you work with my insurance company? Many will handle insurance tasks, but some dentists do require payment up front and then you are reimbursed by your insurance company. Be sure you understand this before visiting the dentist.
If the Lubbock Dentist answers all of your questions and you feel comfortable with him or her, make an appointment to visit the office. Ensure it is clean and orderly and infection control procedures have been put into place. Contact the Board of Dentistry also to ensure the dentist has the proper licensing and is not involved in any disciplinary actions. Your oral health is just as important as your general health. Don’t take chances by choosing a dentist out of the phone book. Take the time to do some research before choosing your next dentist.
