According to market research company IBIS World, there are over 183k businesses in the US dental industry. As the industry continues to grow, you may struggle to find a family dentist in Catoosa, OK. Don't settle for the first family dental care office you find during an online search.

Instead, use these tips to find a Catoosa, OK dentist you can trust. Finding an experienced dentist can ensure your family's long-term oral health. Healthy smiles can benefit their overall health and quality of life.

Find a dentist for your family today!

Gather Referrals for Top Dentists in Catoosa

Turn to local friends, family members, and neighbors to build a list of the top dentists in Catoosa. Ask about their experiences during previous visits to their family dental care office. Their local recommendations will streamline your search (and help you determine which dentists to avoid).

Prepare a list of questions you want to ask, such as:

• How long has the dentist practiced?
• Where is the dental clinic located?
• Do they treat patients of all ages?
• What services do they offer?
• Have you encountered problems at their clinic?
• Is your child comfortable with their dentist?

Learn more about the problems each patient had while at the clinic. Did the staff try to resolve the problem? Choose a practice that cares about their patients.

If you can't gather personal referrals, begin your search online instead. Use the American Dental Association's website, the Healthgrades directory, or consult your insurance carrier. They may provide a list of qualified dentists within your network.

Read online patient reviews for each dentist on your list. Look for comments about the team's professionalism, services, and bedside manner. Avoid practices that have a history of scheduling or billing issues.

Gathering referrals and reviews will help you find a practice with a well-established reputation. They'll strive to meet a higher standard of care. You'll have peace of mind knowing you've chosen a reliable, trustworthy dental team. 

Check Their Training and Credentials

Before choosing a Catoosa, OK dentist, review their Healthgrades listing. You can also check the "About Us" page on the clinic's website to review their credentials.

Determine where each dentist completed their training. Confirm that they graduated from an accredited institution. A licensed dentist should have a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree. 

Both degrees require professionals to meet high academic standards and clinical training. These dentists have passed national and state exams to practice. 

Confirm that each dentist on your list is an American Dental Association (ADA) member. All members are held to a high ethical standard of care.

Determine if the dentist has any additional board certifications. Their extra education and training can speak to their level of expertise. Choose a dentist that prioritizes continuing their education.

These dentists keep up with state-of-the-art technology, new techniques, and the latest procedures (like laser dentistry). They'll provide up-to-date dental services to meet a higher standard of care. 

Look for Family Dental Care Experience

Determine how long each dentist has practiced in Catoosa, OK and how long they've owned their clinic. A practice that's run for years has outlasted competing clinics. They know how to operate effectively and efficiently.

A newer clinic, on the other hand, is more likely to make mistakes regarding scheduling and billing. You could have a negative patient experience at one of these newer practices. Instead, choose a dental team that knows how to care for its patients.

Consider how long each dentist has specialized in family dental care. These dentists will know how to put younger patients at ease. A dentist who specializes in adult dental care may unintentionally trigger your child's dental anxiety. 

According to the Journal of Dental Hygiene, between 50 to 80%of American adults have some degree of dental anxiety. Over 20% of these patients don't see a dentist regularly, while as many as 15% avoid care altogether. Avoiding the dentist could compromise your child's oral and overall health as an adult. 

Finding a dentist they're comfortable with now can set them up for success later. Choose a dentist who has experience soothing dental anxiety. They'll ensure your child receives proper care. 

Prioritize the Best Dental Services

Ask each dentist about the services they offer. These could include:

• General dentistry
• Cosmetic dentistry
• Restorative dentistry
• Emergency dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Implant dentistry
• Periodontics
• Sedation dentistry
• Laser dentistry
• Oral surgery

General dentistry includes preventive care, exams, and routine cleanings. According to the CDC, almost 87% of children have seen their dentist in the past year. Only 13.2% of children ages five to 19 have untreated dental caries.

Preventive dentistry can help your child avoid cavities and other oral health issues. Ask about the dentist's preventive services, such as sealants or fluoride treatments.

Emergency dentistry will ensure you or your child receives immediate care. Receiving urgent care could save a tooth.

Determine if the dentist's services align with your needs.Choose a clinic that offers all the best dental services under one roof. 

Check Their Location

Check Google Maps to determine where each dental practice is located. Find a practice near your home, work, and child's school.

Choosing a centralized location will offer ease and convenience later.

Consider each clinic's operating hours. If they offer emergency dental services, confirm that they're open late. Finding a dentist with extended office hours will give you peace of mind.

Consider Comfort

Meet at least three of the dentists on your list in person. Prepare a list of questions you want to ask to determine if they meet your needs.

Consider the dentist's demeanor during this consultation appointment. Are they friendly and easy to talk to? Prioritize finding a dentist who will put your family members at ease during appointments. 

Find the Best Family Dentist in Catoosa, OK

Don't choose the first family dentist in Catoosa, OK you find online. Instead, use these tips to do your due diligence. Find a dentist who can care for your family's oral health for years to come. 

Our team at Dental Arts of Catoosa is dedicated to providing excellent care in a warm and friendly environment. You can rely on our range of services, extended hours, and qualified dental team. Contact us now to book your next appointment!