Sitting in the dentist’s chair isn’t most people’s idea of fun. But you can’t avoid this as it is vital for maintaining good oral health. But visiting a dentist that is not experienced or treats you well will not be much use. Choosing a Kirkland dentist who knows his job and is well-experienced is imperative.
If you already are visiting a dentist but are not sure whether your dentist is good enough or not? Here are some of the telltale signs that tell you that it is high time to consider changing your dentist:
1. Inability to meet American Dental Association (ADA) standards
If your dentist offers poor services, then it is time to change your dentist. You should never put up with terrible practices by dentists, whether in the area of failure to sterilize equipment or lack of up-to-date facilities. Your dental health should be of paramount importance to your dentist, and in a situation where they handle your issue with indifference and gross recklessness, you need to do what is best for you and seek better dental care elsewhere.
At first, most dentists promise the finest service delivery, only for you to find out it is all a mirage. The environment is not hygienic, the equipment is not properly handled, and the staff is not friendly. In any case, a safe practice that meets ADA specifications is what you need.
2. Dentist doesn’t take into account the medical history before starting the treatment
The first thing that a professional dentist must do before assessing your dental problems is to take a full medical history of his patients. If your dentist doesn’t take into account your history as certain conditions and medications may affect the way your teeth react to a particular treatment. A dentist who doesn’t know about the underlying problems will just be performing unsuccessful treatments.
3. Exhibit inappropriate behavior
Most of the patients who visit the dentist have fear and anxiety about dental chairs or equipment, and it is very important for the dentist to be polite and understanding. If your dentist is rude or fails to calm you before the dental procedure, then it is a warning bell. It is time for you to look for a dentist who is tolerant and supports you throughout the dental procedures.
4. The dentist tells you that you need not see a specialist
In case your dentist says that you need not visit a specialist for orthodontics or implants and compels you to get the treatment from them, it is a warning bell. It requires hours of training and specialized knowledge to perform the specialized dental procedures. Ask the dentist to provide certificates to authenticate the claim that he or she can perform specialized procedures, reviews and testimonials of past patients and photographs of the procedure. In case the dentist fails to provide any of these, it is best in your interest to look for some other dentist.
5. The dentist feels offended if you mention a second opinion
If your dentist less than professional at the mention of another dentist or when you say that you intend to get a second opinion, it’s time to look for another dentist. A good dentist will always be confident about their findings and suggested treatment procedure and never have an issue if you plan to get a second opinion.
6. Can’t or won’t fit you in last minute
We get it; emergencies happen, and when you need emergency dental care, you want your dentist to be there for you. If you’ve been going to your dentist for some time, and the office doesn’t even attempt to accommodate your urgent dental care needs, it may be time to consider a new dentist.
Of course, there are other reasons, but these are just a few signs you should watch out for. All this being said nobody is perfect, and most people want to feel that they are valued as a patient and person.
