A Guide to Finding a Family Dentist

Proper dental care is important for the overall health of your entire family. Routine oral care from a family dentist can have an impact not just on the appearance of your teeth and gums, but on their function as well. Dental health can also affect many systems of the body and should be prioritized to avoid unnecessary problems and risks.

Many people assume that there is no need to see a dentist if they are not experiencing pain or problems. However, many dental issues can be caught by a dentist long before symptoms arise. Early detection offers many patients more treatment options, some of which are less invasive, less painful, and more budget-friendly. The overall outcome can also be more positive if treatment begins in the early stages.

Regular professional cleanings are also very important for people of all ages. Brushing and flossing alone cannot remove the tartar buildup that develops on and between teeth. Without removal from a dentist, this can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. While both are relatively common dental issues, they can still be problematic, leading to infection, damage, and even tooth loss. Gum disease can also increase your risks for other serious health issues, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Stroke
• Mental illness

For these reasons, it is important to see a dentist at least twice a year and to find a provider that meets your needs. The choice of a family dentist to take care of your household's oral health is a big decision, but one that will make your life a lot easier. Besides the convenience of having one location for the whole family's appointments, the benefits of having a single practice to meet the needs of every family member are invaluable. 

How to choose a family dentist

The search process for a dental professional is important to ensure you find the right fit for your family. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your family dentist.

Location

A bit of research will help you find some local options. The closer the location, the better in terms of convenience. However, do not make your decision strictly based on location. You may find that a better-qualified family dentist is located a little farther away. Use social media, an internet search, and word-of-mouth suggestions to find some options that are within a comfortable and convenient driving distance from your house, work, or children's school.

Certifications

Once you have a shortlist of options, check their qualifications and level of experience. The family dentist's website should include information about licensing and how long the practice has been in business. 

Quality

The quality of your potential family dentist should be a top priority in your search. Check the website and common search engines for customer reviews. Call the office and speak to the receptionist; the professionalism of this first impression can tell you a great deal about the quality of the practice as a whole.

Services offered

Choose a family dentist who offers a broad array of services to avoid finding a separate practice for more specialized care. One of the greatest benefits of a family dentist is the one-stop-shop feature, so ensuring the services offered meet all the needs of your family is a must.

Walk-in policies

Check the operating hours of the dental office and their policies on handling emergency issues. It is important to find a practitioner that is receptive to walk-in cases if a patient needs emergency care.

Technology

Be sure the dentist you choose utilizes advanced technology. This is important for both preventative and restorative practices so your family can have the best experience. Do a little research on this; check the website and speak to the dental staff to ascertain what types of equipment they use.

Costs

Dental costs vary from one practice to the next. While you want a great location, a wide range of services, and modern technology, be prepared for costs to be a bit higher for those conveniences. You should also determine if the family dentist you choose accepts your dental insurance plan before you go to the trouble of scheduling a visit.

Conclusion

Every member of your family should see a dentist on a routine basis to maintain good oral and overall health. Finding a family dentist may require a bit of a search, but the conveniences and benefits of having one dental professional to care for your entire family are definitely worthwhile.

Request an appointment here: https://www.riversdentistry.com or call Rivers Family Dentistry at (979) 710-2216 for an appointment in our Bryan office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Bryan, TX.