Avoiding a Bad Dentist - The Warning Signs

There is a misconception among the general public that each dentist is the same as the next. They all went to dental school, are all in the same game to provide the same services, and they are all of approximately the same skill level. This couldn't be further from the truth. Yes, they all went to dental school, but that's where the similarities end. The truth is that finding a good one is as important as finding a good doctor, a good mechanic, a good lawyer, or any other service provider in any field. And the difference between a good one and a bad one may be vast indeed. Here are some signs that a dental care provider might be on the bad end of the spectrum.

Out for Money

In recent years, the dentist has gone from being someone who owns a small private practice to someone who works in a national chain, like a McDonald's of dentistry. While this certainly isn't the case for everyone, it is growing into a rather prominent issue. These clinics are popular because they can afford to permeate the airwaves and publications with advertisements. Unfortunately, customer review after customer review shows that these places are more interested in following a profit plan than they are in giving their patients the best possible care. When possible, avoid these chains and stick with someone local.

Overly Busy

If you call a dentist and find you can't make an appointment for three months, this is a sign that something is wrong. While the office may be the best in the state, what good is that going to do you if you have an emergency? Dental offices that know no limits in terms of how many patients they take on should be regarded with a suspicious eye. Health care shouldn't be about the best path towards riches. It should be about providing a public service. If a health care provider happens to make a great living while doing so, that's fine. If their only goal is to buy seven houses on the backs of patients waiting weeks and months to get in, there is a problem.

No Listening

One of the most important aspects of being a dentist is the ability and willingness to listen to their patients. A patient can tell his doctor what's wrong with their oral health. They may not be able to diagnose themselves, but they can certainly give a dental care provider some background on the problems they are facing. Without being willing to listen to this background, a dental professional risks misdiagnosis. If you ever get the feeling that you aren't being listened to, you can easily find someone who will treat you with the respect you've earned as a human being.