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If you don't have a general or family dentist, now's the time to select one. If you have dental insurance, check to see if your dental plan requires you to choose from a list of dentists who participate in the plan. Some insurance plans allow you to choose an out-of-network dentist (one who does not participate with the plan). Generally, your benefit will be less.
Ask friends, relatives and coworkers for personal recommendations. Inquire what dentists they see and whether they are satisfied with the dentist's service and quality of care. Ask your family physician, pharmacist and faculty members of a local dental school if they can provide suggestions. Or contact the local or state dental society for referrals. (They're usually listed in telephone directories under "dentists" or "associations.") If you're moving, your current dentist may be able to make a recommendation.
You also can check with a dental network or a referral service. These groups prescreen participants, generally recording dentists' educational background, experience and specialty, as well as other information, such as their ability to speak a second language. Be aware, however, some services only list dentists who pay to be included. To learn about a dentist's credentials, you can check the American Dental Directory at your local library.
Another consideration is the location of a dentist's office. Ideally, you'll want it to be convenient to where you live or work. Find out, too, about office hours. If needed, are evening or weekend appointments available?
Once you've narrowed your list to two or three dentists, call their offices to ask preliminary questions, such as:
Does the practice accept your dental plan?
Is payment requested at the visit or will the dentist file your insurance company claim and bill you for the balance?
Is the dentist willing to set up a payment plan for more comprehensive treatments? Are there various payment plans offered?
Does the dental staff use universal precautions for infection control, such as gloves, masks, protective clothing and sterilized instruments and work areas?
What is the protocol for patients who have emergencies during office hours, after office hours and when the dentist is away?
Are patients notified when it's time for a checkup? Are all patients recalled every six months or is the recall level adjusted for individual need?
Does the dentist treat children?
Personal Evaluation
Because a trusting relationship between you and your dentist is so important, you may wish to reserve time to ask questions during the initial examination.
Will the dentist develop a treatment plan for you and discuss it with you on a regular basis? Will the dentist provide treatment options?
If needed, does the dentist utilize sedation, such as nitrous oxide?
Does the dentist take and keep your medical and dental history on file? How often does the dentist update your medical and dental history?
How are patients screened for periodontal disease?
If you call the practice with a problem, will your call be put through to the dentist? Are there established times for calls to and from the dentist? Are telephone calls returned the same day?
Does the dentist take continuing education classes?
Ask the dentist to explain anything you don't understand. If you're dissatisfied with his or her answers, or uncomfortable with the dentist's manner consider using another dentist from your list. Remember, you should feel content with your decision.
While on your visit, make observations about the office.
Is the office clean, neat and professional?
Is the staff friendly, helpful and professional in manner and dress?
Are patients seen promptly?
Is the practice a high-volume operation in which the dentist rushes from patient to patient? These dentists may be unwilling or unable to spend extra time with you if you need it.
Once you've made your selection and scheduled a visit, be sure to inform the practice about your dental benefit plan. If your dental benefit plan uses a special claim form, bring one with the patient/employee portion completed.
Many people find it advantageous and comforting to continue seeing the same dentist. By remaining a loyal patient, you help your dentist develop a comprehensive picture of your dental health. Make sure you disclose all medical problems and any medications you are taking. Over time you will most likely establish a friendly relationship that can make visits more pleasant. Give the relationship a fair chance to succeed and be an active participant.
If at some point you feel uncomfortable or dissatisfied with the treatment recommendations or quality of dental care you are receiving, speak with your dentist about your concerns. If they cannot be resolved, you may wish to obtain a second opinion or seek the services of another dentist. If you do decide to switch dentists,ask your previous dentist to send a copy of your dental records to your new dentist. Remember to make your request in writing, and don't wait until your next appointment or an emergency.
Children and the Dentist
Good dental care starts at an early age. A first visit can serve as a get-to-know-you session in which a child becomes familiar with going to a dentist and parents can learn how to care for their child's teeth.
Going to the dentist can be stressful. If you are anxious about dental visits, don't let your child know it. Also, try to schedule appointments for young children in the morning. There is less chance of having to wait and children tend to be more cooperative and attentive early in the day.
When narrowing your choices, consider these questions.
Does the dentist have a special interest in treating children?
Is the waiting room equipped for children, with toys, books and kid-size furniture?
Will you be informed about your child's tooth development, the cause and prevention of dental disease and appropriate dental care at home?
Is the dentist's office located near your home or your child's school or day care?
What is the dentist's philosophy regarding sealants?
Most dentists employ one or more dental hygienists. They perform routine cleanings and teach the patient about proper dental hygiene. Dental hygienists have completed at least two years of schooling and have passed a state board licensing examination.
If you're lucky, you'll see more of your dental hygienist and less of your dentist. Your dentist will check your teeth for problems after the hygienist performs a routine cleaning. Your relationship with your hygienist is just as important as your relationship with your dentist. Keep this in mind when selecting a dentist or dental practice.
Doing Your Part
The best dentist in the world can't do it alone. To keep your teeth healthy, you must be a participant. Follow your dentist's recommendations for brushing, flossing and checkups. By upholding your oral hygiene responsibilities at home, you'll contribute significantly to a healthy mouth and a satisfying relationship with your dentist.
Dentist in Detroit metro area
Moderator: DoctorEugene
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- Уже с Приветом
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- Location: Russia, Ufa->Detroit, MI, USA
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- Уже с Приветом
- Posts: 886
- Joined: 22 Feb 2001 10:01
- Location: Russia, Ufa->Detroit, MI, USA
Dentist in Detroit metro area
похоже с английским тут у людей проблемы...
окей.
посоветуйте хорошего дантиста в детройтской области. можно поближе к городишку Dearborn.
или поиссякла земля мичиганская?!
окей.
посоветуйте хорошего дантиста в детройтской области. можно поближе к городишку Dearborn.
или поиссякла земля мичиганская?!
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- Уже с Приветом
- Posts: 557
- Joined: 09 May 2001 09:01
Dentist in Detroit metro area
Я живу в Detroit area, но своего дантиста вам не посоветую. Ничего ужасного он пока не сделал, но хвалить его тоже не за что. Если Вам хоть кого-нибудь, то могу дать координаты, а так честно говорю, я не в восторге.