How Do You Know You’re Dealing With a Great Dentist?
Like a good doctor can be important to your overall health, a great dentist is just as important. Many underestimate the effect that oral hygiene can have on your overall health, and research shows that poor teeth and gums are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, a higher risk of infection and even poor mental health.
If you want to take charge of your health, here are a few tips on how to evaluate a great dentist and dental practice.
Do they Have Professional Qualifications?
In Australia, becoming a fully qualified dentist can take up to 7 years depending on the path taken, and dentists must complete a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate training from an eligible university.
Specialist dentists can practice in one or more specialisations such as orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery or paediatric dentistry. Each specialisation must also meet additional requirements specified by the Dental Board of Australia.
Technical staff will also have degrees or certificates as dental hygienists, oral health therapists or dental therapists.
Referrals and Recommendations
One of the best ways to find a good dentist is to ask your friends, relatives and colleagues about their own dental experiences.
If your friend has a beautiful smile, find out who provides her dental care. If your colleagues have had dental work such as crowns or implants, ask about the quality of work, follow-up and service.
When you investigate the referral, ask the dental office if they have a portfolio that showcases their work. Experienced professionals often have many examples that demonstrate their expertise.
Also, take a look at the online reviews of the dental practice. Search for the practice on Google, Facebook and other forms of social media to find reviews from past customers.
Clarity and Openness
You’re developing a long-term relationship with a health care professional, and both you and your dentist benefit from being open in your communication. The dentist should discuss any concerns you have about any treatments including costs, number of visits involved, potential for success and follow-up care.
During your check up, the dentist should explain what is being done, what has been found and any recommendations for treatment. The explanations should be presented in plain, easy-to-understand language, and if you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask and your dentist should take the time to answer you fully.
Cleanliness
As with any medical environment, cleanliness is extremely important. Tools, equipment and work areas should be immaculate. Equipment should be sterilised before use, and used equipment should be handled and processed so that it does not contaminate other areas.
All relevant staff should wear gloves during treatment and these should be disposed of after each use. The dentist should not touch anything while wearing gloves but your mouth and the equipment needed for treatment.
Personalised Care at Maudsland Dental Care
At Maudsland, our goal is to make your dental experience safe, comfortable and affordable. Our practice includes a fully outfitted dental suite and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, with LED intraoral viewing screens at each treatment station to let you see what the dentist sees. This allows you to be shown the areas to be treated and explained what is being done.
To put you and your family at ease, we also have LCD TVs mounted on the ceiling so you can watch your favourite shows during your dental session. Our play area is also popular with the kids, and our staff are experienced in working with children and helping them stay relaxed during treatment.
Call 07 5580 0621 today to schedule your appointment, and we look forward to working with you at Maudsland Dental Care!
