Choosing a dentist for your family involves more than finding the cheapest option nearby. You want to consider a dental practice that focuses on preventive and patient-centred dentistry, not just price and location.
What Should You Look for When Choosing a Dentist?
A Focus on Prevention, Not Just Treatment
A good family dentist will encourage regular dental check-ups, cleans and preventive care to help identify problems early and reduce the risk of more extensive treatment later.
A Range of Services for Different Life Stages
Look for a dental clinic that covers your whole family – from children’s dentistry and preventive care to restorative and cosmetic treatments, with the capacity for more complex care when required.
Does It Matter If Your Dentist Understands Dental Anxiety?
The short answer is, yes! Dental anxiety can lead people to postpone dental check-ups or treatment. Delaying care can allow existing dental problems to become more difficult to manage.
Your dentist should be able to communicate clearly about treatment and help create a comfortable experience, including discussing options such as nitrous oxide or sedation when clinically appropriate. Your dentist should work with you to manage dental anxiety rather than dismissing your concerns.
Should the Whole Family Use the Same Dentist?
A family dental practice that can offer treatment to everyone – from grandparents to kids – can be convenient for parents and primary carers. Finding a practice that accommodates different ages and needs can mean greater continuity of care, a stronger relationship with your dental team and a better understanding of your family’s dental history and habits. A familiar dental environment can also help children become more comfortable with routine visits.
How Can You Find a Dentist That Suits Your Needs?
Location and convenience
While not the final say, location is important when choosing a family dental practice. You want somewhere that’s easy to reach from home, work or school, so appointments don’t turn into hours of driving. For families across the St George area, this may mean looking at nearby suburbs as well. Those living in Mortdale, Penshurst, Peakhurst, Lugarno, Hurstville Grove or Connells Point may find a family dentist in Oatley conveniently located nearby.
Range of services
Look for a family clinic that offers a range of services and can explain the referral options available if specialist or hospital-based dental care is required.
Approach to prevention
Ask prospective dentists how they approach prevention in their dental care; prioritise regular check-ups and early interventions that can help maintain your family’s oral health and reduce the risk of more serious issues developing.
Experience with children
If you have children or are planning a family, choosing a dentist that has experience with kids is important. Positive early dental visits can help children become familiar with the dentist and develop healthy oral care habits. Look for practices that create a welcoming environment for children and make routine appointments easier for families.
Transparent Pricing and Rebates
Cost can be a considerable deterrent to dental work. Not knowing what to expect makes it harder to choose a dentist. Look for practices that have transparent pricing and clear information about private health fund rebates and any applicable government dental schemes. Having HICAPS available can also make claiming eligible health fund benefits on the day more convenient.
Changing Needs
Prioritise dental practices in your area that can accommodate changing needs. From childhood and the teenage years through to adult dental needs and care later in life, choosing a whole-family clinic can help you build an ongoing relationship with your dental team over many years.
