With so many dental clinics in the market, it can be hard choosing a suitable dentist for your regular visits. We ask the Smilefocus team for some tips to help you find the right one for your entire family!
#1 Do your research
Most people seek recommendations from those they trust when looking for a new dentist, or from websites and forums where like-minded people share ideas. If they see a dentist’s name being referenced often, they may choose to visit him or her. Word-of-mouth recommendations are important! So, do plenty of research – speak with your friends, family, colleagues and insurance provider, and don’t forget to read up on the clinic online – before dropping by for a visit.
#2 Go for a consultation
There’s no better way to find out more about someone than to visit him or her in person. After you’ve narrowed down your options, book yourself in for a consultation with the dentist. Ask as many questions as you can, and note how the dentist handles them. You may need to pay a consultation fee as you’re receiving professional advice, but don’t feel pressured to say yes to any treatments recommended.
#3 Communication skills
How well does the dentist explain various treatments? Is the dentist willing to listen and give alternative solutions? Can he or she handle kids well? Is he or she patient when answering all your questions? You should also receive a detailed treatment plan, including the relevant costs.
#4 Skills and experience
Are you comfortable with the clinical skills of the dentist? All general dentists practising in Singapore are qualified. A dentist’s experience and commitment to continuing education ensure they have the skills to treat generally all routine dental procedures. You may wish to consult a specialist, however, if you’re considering a more targeted treatment. Read up on the dentist’s experience and years of practice. Twice-a-year visits to the dentist are important to maintain dental health, so you will be seeing the dentist on a regular basis. It’s important to have confidence and trust in your dentist as this is a long-term relationship.
About Smilefocus
Smilefocus has a team of experienced and overseas-qualified expatriate dentists, including those specifically experienced in braces, children’s dentistry and implant dentistry. Supported by dental assistants and administration personnel from around the world, the team offers the full range of dental care. Insurance direct billing is available here – check out Expat Insurance for its packages – and Smilefocus offers translations in multiple languages, including Russian, French, German and Italian.
Camden Medical Centre, 1 Orchard Boulevard
enquiries@smilefocus.com.sg
6834 0877 | 6733 9882
smilefocus.com.sg
Read more in our Health & Fitness section!
