Top 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Emergency Dentists
Did you know there are over 200,000 dentists in the US?
With so many options for dentists, it’s hard enough choosing who you’ll visit for routine cleanings and checkups. But when you need emergency dental care, the stakes are much higher — and you may not have a lot of time to make your decision.
Here are four tips for choosing emergency dentists who will provide the expert care you need.
- Experience
Like other medical professionals, different dentists have different specialties. Don’t assume that the same dentist who put braces on your 10-year-old child is the best dentist to repair your broken tooth.
Emergency dental experience is an absolute must, so look for a clinic that specializes in emergency treatment. They’ll use the latest technologies and treatments available to address your emergency. They’ll also know how to keep you calm and comfortable if you suffer from dental anxiety.
A simple toothache or lost filling is a quick fix, but what if your emergency means you’ll need a crown, root canal, or dental implant? You’ll want a dentist with many years of experience in that type of treatment.
- Reputation
When you Google “dental office near me,” there’s a lot you can learn just by studying the dentist’s website. Is it professionally designed with transparent policies? Is there a page full of glowing testimonials from past clients?
Cross-reference those testimonials with reviews on third-party sites. Reading online reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, and other platforms will give you a solid idea of the clinic’s reputation.
Don’t automatically cross a dentist off your list for one poor review, but be wary if you notice a pattern of negative comments. It’s best to keep searching until you find a dentist that the majority of clients rave about.
- Accessibility
The best dentist in the world can’t help you if their office is closed when you have an emergency. You won’t find a clinic that’s open 24/7, but you should consider availability if you need emergency dental care in the evening or on a weekend.
Of course, the distance from your home, office, or location where the emergency happened plays a big role too. You may not have time to drive 50 miles down the road if you knocked out a tooth and need treatment ASAP.
- Cost
Dental emergencies aren’t cheap. Even if you have a dental insurance plan, you’ll likely still have to pay a percentage of the costs for your treatment.
If there’s time, do some cost comparison between a few different clinics. You might also inquire about payment plans if you’re worried about paying for a big bill upfront. Some dentists are happy to work with you on payment plans or even offer a discount for multiple services.
Choosing Emergency Dentists in Your Locale
A dental emergency can be a frightening experience, but the right dentist can put you at ease. When choosing emergency dentists, use the tips above to guide you to the best clinic in your area.
That way, you’ll be sure you get the treatment you need at a price you can afford.
Emergency dental care isn’t the only topic we’re discussing today. Keep browsing our site for more great health and wellness advice!
