Dental insurance plans such as PPO or indemnity let you to pick and choose your own dentist,  however finding the right dentist for you and your family is important.  Finding a dentist online is the number one method of finding a dentist today.  Yet, finding a new dentist can be a daunting task.  Here are some tips in hopes that it will make it easier for you to pick a dentist that you can feel comfortable with and go to at least every six months.

1) Online provides you the ability to review patient reviews.  Many people leave dentist reviews on Google, Yahoo, Bing as well as in dentist directories, and in business directories. Informed patients use these reviews to make a decision as to whether or not the dentist in question is worth contacting.

2) Know the dental office business hours.  Not all dental offices operate on a 9-5 M-F schedule. In fact, it’s the norm to find dentists that don’t operate Monday or Friday or that have varying schedules on a day-to-day basis. This is great for the dentist, but sometimes not so great for patients who have strict schedules to follow. On the brighter side you may be able to find a dental office that also provides weekend and evenings hours.

3) Know just how busy a dental office is. It is not so nice to have to wait months in-order to book a dental appointment for your dental care needs.

4) If you have dental insurance make sure the dentist accepts your dental plan. Also be sure to have a clear understanding on how the dental office files claims.

5) Location can be an issue.  It is nice to be able to find a dentist that is close to your home or work since most people do like convenience.  However, don’t let convenience get in the way of finding the right dentist for your specific needs, including office hours, emergency hours, policy on missed appointments, and most importantly a willingness and desire to handle your special needs as a patient.