Does your family dentist get your kids excited about brushing? Are you looking for a steady, reliable “dentist near me” that can do it all?
In general, children should meet with their dentist once their first tooth breaks through or when they turn one, whichever comes first.
Family-focused dentists work with parents to develop healthy oral care routines, but which dentist is best? There are a few steps parents can take to make sure they choose the right dental practice.
3 Quick Steps to Find the Perfect Dentist
When parents search for “dentist near me,” what exactly should they look for? Internet searches can be overwhelming and it’s sometimes difficult to get through all the information. Should they base their decision on customer reviews, location, or some other unknown factor?
Here is a quick three-step process to help find a compassionate, family-friendly dental practice:
1. Search “Dentist Near Me”
Parents should look for two things. First, positive reviews. Are patients satisfied with the quality of care that they receive from this dentist? Does the dentist offer the right services for children such as fluoride varnish and tooth sealants?
Next, parents should look for negative reviews. The key here is not whether patients had a complaint, but how the dental practice addressed it. Were they polite and professional? Did they solve the complaint immediately?
Pro tip: dentists should be accredited by the Better Business Bureau and have an A or A+ rating. They should also have ratings on Yelp! and local chamber of commerce websites.
2. Ask Family and Friends for Referrals
After the internet search, parents can develop a short list of three to five dentists they would like to contact. Before reaching out, it’s a good idea to talk to family and friends for referrals.
Ideally, a family dentist should have these qualities:
- Specialized training that qualifies them to treat young patients
- A preventive approach to dental care
- Warm, welcoming staff
- Flexible hours to accommodate busy families
Young patients can be nervous when going to the dentist, so look for dentists with a great reputation and a track record of helping kids feel comfortable.
3. Meet With the Dental Team
Before the first examination, parents may want to have their kids meet the dentist and staff. So much of dental anxiety stems from being in an unfamiliar environment. A quick stop by the dentist’s office for introductions can make the child’s first appointment much more enjoyable for all parties involved.
When parents meet with dentists, it’s a good time to talk about dental insurance and financing. Some dentists have new patient specials for exams and cleanings that make these appointments even more affordable.
Children’s Dentist in Lombard, IL
Looking for a “dentist near me” in Lombard, IL for your family? Look no further! Dr. Julie Glud serves the Greater Lombard area including Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Villa Park, and Elmhurst. She can meet with patients during early morning or evening hours.
If you’ve got young kids, don’t worry. Our team works to make them comfortable and provide them with a positive dental experience. Call (630) 629-5700 to schedule your initial consultation, or contact us online.
