Finding the right dentist for your entire family might seem impossible, but with a little research and effort, you can find a dentist that meets all your needs. If you’re searching for a great dentist in the Great Falls, VA area, including the DC metro, Seneca Smiles should be your next call. Our talented team of dental professionals is qualified, knowledgeable, and works hard to make every patient feel comfortable and welcome.
Here’s what to look for when you’re searching for your family’s next dentist:
1. Look for a Dentist with Pediatric Expertise
If you have little ones in the family, finding a dentist with experience working with children is a must. Children require a different skill set and approach than adults, so just a general dentist won’t cut it. Ask any dentist you’re considering about their experience with children and the specialized techniques they use for pediatric dental care.
2. Find an Office with a Welcoming Environment
Visiting the dentist can already cause some anxiety in certain people, including children, so be sure any dentist you choose has gone the extra mile to ensure that all patients feel welcomed and at ease. For kids, waiting areas with a children’s section – with books, games, and other toys – are a big plus. For adults, a clean waiting area with comfy chairs and something interesting on TV will probably do the trick. These little extras make the entire dental visit experience much more comfortable and enjoyable.
3. Check for Comprehensive Services
A dentist may do phenomenal work, but if they don’t offer the services your family needs, then they’re not the right dentist for you. Opt for a dentist who offers a wide range of dental services for the whole family, including:
- Preventative Care
- General Dentistry
- Restorative Dentistry
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Periodontics
For example, if you have a teenager who needs braces, choose a family dentist that offers orthodontic care to avoid frequent referrals to specialists. It’s much easier to receive as much dental care under the same roof as possible and aids in the coordination of care if a specialist is needed.
4. Prioritize Good Communication & Patient Education
The best dentists extend their reach far beyond their office, with a focus on educating patients about how to care well for their teeth at home. Find a dentist who communicates with you in the language you can easily understand so you are empowered to properly care for your teeth and manage any issues that may arise. This relationship built on solid communication can lay the foundation for great dental health for life for your entire family.
5. Emergency Dental Care
If you’ve ever had a dental emergency outside of office hours, especially one that was painful, you know how important it is to have access to dental advice and care 24/7. Ask any dentist you are considering what their emergency protocols are and how you can contact someone if you need them on nights or weekends.
6. Research Their Reputation & Read Reviews
One of the best ways to find a great dentist in your area is to simply ask around. People are usually quite willing to share their experiences with local dentists, both good and bad, so rely on your family, friends, and neighbors for testimonials and advice. Online review sources like Google and Yelp are also very helpful when researching a dentist’s reputation, as some people are more honest when they aren’t face-to-face.
7. Consider Location & Convenience
You need a dentist that is located close enough to your home and/or work to be convenient if a last-minute visit is needed. Choose a dental office that’s a comfortable driving distance for you and that is open during hours when you can go for an appointment.
8. Understand Their Payment Options & Insurance Policies
Finally, double-check with your dental insurance or health insurance plan to be sure the dentist that you choose is available and in-network, which will make your visits much more affordable. At Seneca Smiles, we accept all major dental plans and will file the claim paperwork for you. We also offer convenient payment methods and financing options for your out-of-pocket costs.
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to get out there and find your family’s perfect dentist. If you’re in the Great Falls, VA area, or anywhere in northeastern VA, you’re in luck! Save your time and effort researching dozens of dentists and go with one of the area’s top dental practices, Seneca Smiles. Led by Dr. Pedro Lam, Seneca Smiles offers the services your family needs in an environment they’ll want to return to time after time. For adults, teens, and children, Dr. Lam takes the time required to get to know your family, understand your concerns and needs, and build a treatment plan that guides your family to great dental health for life. To schedule an appointment with us, call 571-556-6139 or request an appointment online.
