With a little luck, you’ll only need to attend our dental office in Millwoods three times a year — at your regular dental checkups every six months, and at your annual professional teeth cleaning. Having said that, we provide a full range of services to help you achieve your cosmetic goals, perform any necessary restorations, and respond to any infections, injuries or emergencies.
As professionals committed to compassionate and effective dental care for all our patients, we believe there are five characteristics that patients should expect of their dental health care providers.
Does the clinic invest in state-of-the-art technology?
We know how anxious many patients are about attending the dentist for even routine preventative care, not to mention for help in cases of emergency. Many people’s dental fear and anxiety are rooted in recollections of dental procedures of days gone by. Continuing advances in dental technology have made dental care safer, more effective, more efficient, and much more comfortable for patients of all ages.
When you’re considering your options for a dentist in Millwoods, ask about the clinic’s recent investments in technology that can transform patient care — things like sedation dentistry, digital x-rays, CEREC, VELscope Screening, and laser dentistry.
Are the dentists and staff committed to continuous improvement?
As technology and innovation continue to evolve, so must the training and education received by general dentists, specialists, assistants, hygienists and all clinic staff. Before entering into a patient relationship with a dental clinic in Millwoods, ask about the clinic’s commitment to participating in and leading professional development and education — among dentists and staff.
Does the clinic prioritize effective communication?
Every dental clinic contains several team members who work collectively toward a single goal — to ensure our patients’ lifelong oral health. To work effectively, team members must be able to work collaboratively amongst each other and with our patients and their families. Ask your potential new dentist in Millwoods how they will communicate with you and how they manage dental records in the office and during collaboration with specialists. The care that an office takes with your information will give you a glimpse into the care they’ll take with your care.
Dental clinics most attuned to their patients’ needs invest in communication technologies and systems that are flexible to individual needs and responsive in emergencies. Anticipate needing to reach your dentist in an emergency, and having to reschedule an appointment or ask for one urgently. How will you be able to reach them, and how will they confirm your availability and track your proactive dental care options?
Does the clinic take evident pride in its cleanliness?
Sometimes things that go without saying should really be said. Is the dental office you’re considering in Millwoods clean? From the parking lot to the lobby, halls, waiting room, waiting room furniture, floors, equipment, and clothing… dental professionals should display their care for your health in their care for their appearance and safety. Infection control is essential, and a commitment to infection control should be obvious at every turn.
“Just enough” or “Above and beyond?”
Every patient needs a dental clinic that will react effectively to a dental need or emergency. Every patient deserves a dental office in Millwoods who will anticipate the evolving dental needs of their family and proactively support good oral health over a lifetime.
What support and information does your possible clinic offer between and around your twice-a-year checkups and annual cleaning? Do they ask questions about conditions related to your oral health but not necessarily your teeth — things like TMD screening, oral cancer screening, your sleep habits, your children, and your personal cosmetic goals beyond the essential fillings?
As you consider partnering with a dental clinic for your lifelong oral health — or the dental needs of your family — ask them these questions. Your dentist in Millwoods should invest in technology, commit to constant learning for all their staff, communicate easily and flexibly, commit to cleanliness, and go above and beyond.