Whether you have just moved to a new neighbourhood, are looking for a family-friendly dentist now that you have kids or are in need of urgent dental care, searching for a dentist can be a challenge.
The chances are that there are dozens of dental clinics located in your area, which makes sorting through your options a little overwhelming. That can leave you asking the question, “How can I find the best dentist near me?” Here are some ideas to help in your search.
Ask for Recommendations
Recommendations are always your best search option as you will know first hand whether or not the dentist has a good reputation. Don’t be afraid to ask around and find names of dentists who come highly recommended by co-workers, parents at your kids’ school, friends, and relatives. If you are new to an area, neighbours are also an excellent source for this type of information.
Ask for a Referral
If the only reason you are looking for a new dentist is that you’re moving, ask your current dentist if they can provide a referral to one of their colleagues in your new neighbourhood. That is an excellent way to be introduced to a new dental team, and that recommendation is coming from a professional you trust.
Professional Listings
Each province has its own websites to help patients find a local dentist. Open Care allows you to enter your postal code and answer a few simple questions before directing you to the dentists in your area. The dentists are searched based on the criteria you select as well as the best dentists complete with ratings.
Online Search
Google makes it easier to search for local services thanks to its geolocation feature. Just enter “the best dentists” in the search field with your postal code, and you will see a list pop up. You can also use your area instead of your postal code, such as “Etobicoke,” if you prefer to see a longer list.
Search Review Sites
Review sites range from professional sites, such as Open Care, to generalized sites, such as Yelp. You can scroll down the list and look for the dental office closest to you while also looking at the ratings. Don’t jump on the first name you see. Instead, read through a few of the comments to find dentists with the qualities that are important to you.
Start Calling Top Picks
Once you have a selection of potential dentists, don’t immediately call to book an appointment. Instead, take time to make some calls to each dental office to learn more about what they offer. Your best-case scenario should include:
- Excellent service on the phone
- The chance to visit the office for a tour
- A dental consultation with the dentist to ask questions and make sure you feel comfortable with the dentist and team
These calls will help you find a dental office with the qualities and environment best suited to your needs.