One complaint that I hear about dentists is that they do not seem to listen or always rush to get to the next person in the waiting room. So when picking a dentist for yourself or your child, an essential factor to consider is whether you feel comfortable with the dentist you are seeing. Can you explain symptoms and ask all the questions you may have without getting the feeling the dentist is checking his clock? Do you feel like your dentist hears and understands your worries or concerns? If you have dental fears or anxiety, can you address them with your dentist? Would you refer a family member or friend to your dentist without thinking they may not like them? 

Some people feel locked into staying with their dentist even if they feel they are not the best dentist for them. But that does not have to be the case. You are in control over who you see. Even on a dental HMO plan where you have to choose from the plan providers, there is no stopping you from changing dentists if you choose to do so. Make sure if you select a dental HMO insurance plan that it has more than just one local dental office near you. The more options you give yourself, the higher your likelihood of finding the dentist you like and will see on regular bases. That’s what’s important.