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As with any other healthcare provider, you want to find a dentist who is both qualified and who best fits your needs. However, with the thousands of practicing dentists out there, how can you find the right match for you?

Below, we’ve come up with a few, simple tips to help streamline your search and empower you to choose the right dentist for your specific needs.

Tip #1 Know Your Dental Requirements.

There are many different types of dentists, and deciding whom to see essentially entails considering your specific needs.

For instance, if you’re looking to fix a misshapen tooth; whiten discolored teeth; or replace missing teeth with dental implants, your best path forward is to see a cosmetic dentist. If you have malocclusion (bad bites) or teeth alignment issues, your best bet is to visit an orthodontist. If you have a complex tooth problem or one requiring root canal treatment, you need to see an endodontist. If you need routine checkups or multiple services done for yourself or your child, your go-to expert is a full-service or a family dentist.

Tip #2 Do Your Due Diligence.  

Consider asking your friends and family members: they may be able to recommend a reliable dentist. You can also do a social media or Google search for dental providers near you. The website of the American Dental Association (ADA) is also a useful resource for board-certified dentists in your area.

Board certification serves as a mark of distinction—your gauge that a dental provider is qualified and knowledgeable, and has kept themselves abreast of the latest advances in the field by pursuing continuing education.

It also helps to leverage the Internet for information about how many years the dental providers in your list have been in practice and as to whether they have a history of malpractice claims or disciplinary action.

Tip #3 Schedule a Meet and Greet.

Once you’ve compiled a list, schedule a meet and greet with the potential candidates. This is the best way to ascertain your prospective dental provider’s bedside manner and your compatibility with them as well as evaluate the attitude of the staff, wait times, and cleanliness of the office.

During your appointment, pay attention to how the dentist talks to you and addresses your questions or concerns. Did the dentist take the time to understand your concerns or explain your treatment options? Did they make you feel comfortable?

It’s one thing to have a dentist who can deliver superior outcomes, but if they are an awful person to work with, they may not be the right one for you. You deserve to work with one who makes you feel respected and comfortable.

Trusted Dentist in Plantation, FL

For world-class dental care in Plantation, Florida, visit us here at the dental office of Dr. Ernie Soto.

One of the renowned dental providers in South Florida, Dr. Soto offers a vast array of high-quality dental services— including dental implants, dental checkups, Zoom teeth whitening, and clear aligners (Invisalign)— to accommodate the needs of the entire family. Dr. Soto’s excellent reputation stems from his genuine commitment to ensuring his patients’ optimal oral health and overall well-being.

To learn more about our dental services or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ernie Soto, please contact us at (954) 368-6264. You may also fill out this form to send an appointment request.