Taking care of your oral health is essential to enjoying a healthy, beautiful smile. In fact, about 93% of Americans believe it goes a long way to protecting your overall health.
A major part of dental care involves going to the dentist for regular checkups. But with so many dentists in Boise, it can be tough to find the right practitioner to cater to your dental needs.
To help you make the right choice, here are some qualities to look for when choosing the right dentist in Boise.
Skilled
When you visit a dental practice, you need to be examined by a dentist capable of diagnosing and treating routine to complex conditions. That is why you need to evaluate their depth of experience and knowledge before choosing your dentist.
Find out if the dentist you are considering has the appropriate licensing. Proper licensure means that your dentist has to meet continuing education requirements and keeps up to date with the latest innovations in dentistry.
You should also try to determine how experienced the dental provider is. It makes you feel at ease to know you’re receiving care from someone who knows what he or she is doing.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you should dismiss dentists early in their careers; instead, you should pay attention to how the dentist handles your case. Since there are various dental specialties, you need to ensure that he or she can handle your specific dental issues.
Communicative
Having a dentist with poor communication skills can often lead to problems. This is why you need a dentist who is present, empathetic, and has active listening skills. Getting the proper information about the nature, course, and prognosis of your dental health is important.
The right dentist should be able to explain the complex medical jargon related to your dental health in a way that you can easily understand. It helps you make critical decisions about your dental care, especially concerning invasive procedures.
You also need to book an appointment with a dentist who asks you necessary questions regarding your overall health. It can help him or her offer proper diagnosis and treatment. Apart from explaining and asking questions, your dentist should also know how to listen effectively. It ensures that he or she will not miss any crucial information.
Detail-Oriented
Your mouth is very small and sensitive, and it needs comprehensive care. Your dentist should be able to pay attention to detail. If you have a dentist who is not detail oriented you may end up with sloppy fillings, crowns that don’t fit properly or look out of place among your other teeth, or pain when your fillings, crowns, or bridges are too high and cause painful inflammation of the tooth root. Dentists who aren’t detail-oriented could also miss issues when conducting your oral exams or reviewing your dental x-rays leading to unidentified problems that can worsen over time due to lack of treatment.
In addition, you need a dentist who thoroughly records notes from your visits and maintains your medical record. A good dentist should also be precise and focused when using dental tools and instruments during treatment, yet another skill that requires attention to detail.
Caring and Compassionate
While most dental practices today emphasize efficiency and quick treatment, they may fail to offer compassionate care for patients. Since some dental procedures can be scary, you need a dentist who is compassionate and can help lower your anxiety and distress. He or she should check on you during every step of treatment, ensuring you are okay and not in pain.
A good dentist should have your best interests at heart and go to great lengths to ensure you are comfortable.
Convenience
From taking care of your family, to working full-time, you may have a lot of commitments and responsibilities. This is why you need to choose a dental practice that’s easy and convenient for you to access.
One of the things to consider when selecting a dentist is that they should be in a location you can assess easily by car or public transportation. The location should also offer ample parking. You don’t want to be late for your appointment due to parking issues.
You should also consider opening hours when choosing your dentist. Make sure that their working hours can fit in with your schedule. For example, if you have office hours, you can consider a dentist who works late hours or on weekends.
Important Tips for Comfortable Dental Care in Boise, ID
Even with the right dentist, it’s estimated that about 36% of people suffer from dental anxiety. If you are one of them, below are options to help you deal with your fear and nervousness.
Bring a Friend Along
If you fear going to the dentist, you can bring a friend or loved one along. Their support may help calm your mind and make you feel safe. You can ask your dentist if your companion can accompany you throughout the dental procedures.
Dental Sedation
Sometimes sedation is the right option for people with dental anxiety. The medication can help you feel relaxed during your dental visit. It can also speed up your perception of time, making you feel like your treatment was over in a matter of minutes.
Whether you’re going in for complex procedures like a root canal or routine cleaning and inspections, you should ask your doctor about your sedation options. From mild to deep sedation, you can choose one that caters to your dental needs.
Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing exercises can relax your mind, helping you feel calmer during dental appointments. Just close your eyes and gently inhale through your nose. Hold your breath for a few seconds, and then slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat this several times until you feel calm.
Guided Imagery
Apart from breathing exercises you can go to your “happy place” and think about funny or positive memories. Though it may sound cliche, guided imagery can help you feel happier and relax your mind.
Get a Distraction
Having a distraction in the dental office can help divert your attention from the unpleasant procedure. At Boise Family Dental Care each patient room has it’s own TV and you are welcome to watch something you enjoy to distract you during your procedure. You may also be able to wear headphones or earbuds and listen to your favorite playlist or relaxing music to help you feel calm during your procedure.
Trusted Dentist in Boise, ID for the Best Oral Care
Are you searching online for “dentist near me”? Look no further than Boise Family Dental Care for a qualified dentist in Boise, Idaho. We offer quality dental services with a personal touch for you and your family. Feel free to schedule an appointment today at our dental clinic in Boise.
