In theory, picking a new dentist should be easy. All you have to do is choose a practice where you want to receive treatment, but where do you begin? There are so many providers to choose from, and it’s important to find one who will listen to your concerns, answer all of your questions, offer personalized care, and make you feel comfortable. If you’re not sure where to start in your search for your dentist, Accent Smile Center is here to help! Let’s explore some questions we think you should ask when choosing your dentist.
Ask to see before-and-after photos
Viewing before-and-after photos will give you vital information about a dentist’s experience and skill level, and it’s important that you begin your dental procedure with the trust and confidence that your chosen office can deliver the results you want. Dr. Ford Gatgens is always be happy to provide before-and-afters upon request so you can see a comprehensive view of his work and evaluate the results for yourself. When you sit down with us before an appointment, we’ll also be able to show you additional photos that may be relevant to your specific needs and goals. When you’re reviewing before-and-after photos, there are a few key questions to consider, including the following.
Are there enough photos to properly evaluate the work? A couple of blurry examples won’t be enough to form an educated opinion about a dentist’s abilities. Make sure you’re seeing enough before-and-after images that you feel confident in their care!
Are you looking at the dentist’s actual patients? In a practice with more than one doctor, it’s especially important to be certain whose work you’re viewing. We have one expert dentist, so you can rest assured that you’re only seeing Dr. Gatgens’ smiling patients.
Do the final images match the vision you have for your own smile? When you schedule an appointment with us, the Accent Smile Center team will have a conversation with you about your diagnosis, your expectations, and what you can anticipate from the treatment process so you’ll have a realistic and informed view of the outcome.
Ask what dental issues they treat
There are a surprising number of dental issues that can develop in your mouth, and you want to ensure that your dentist is able to effectively address your specific case with the best treatment possible. Dr. Gatgens can treat all dental conditions you may be facing, but below are some of the most common issues which we will screen for at your initial consultation.
Preventive Oral Hygiene & Instruction
This includes proper brushing, flossing, and eating habits, ideal fluoride levels and the use of pit and fissure sealants. We strive to provide a non-judgemental, educational environment where you can learn about proper dental hygiene, and have years of experience teaching patients how to best care for their oral and dental health.
Dentistry
This includes fillings, cleanings, tooth extractions, and more. Our team is committed to discussing all of your options before any procedures and answering all questions you may have. Our first priority is always to help you be healthier by working towards a healthy smile.
We also provide emergency dentistry services. Accent Smile Center always has someone on call and we will return your call promptly. Dental emergencies may include:
- A permanent tooth that has been knocked out
- Loose or misaligned permanent teeth due to trauma
- Chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth
- Abscesses
- Broken appliance
- Facial fracture
Although oral issues that don’t require more urgent care can normally be dealt with during regular office hours, you should arrange to visit Accent Smile Center as soon as possible once a problem has been noted, as delayed treatment can lead to serious complications.
Ask about their experience
Any dentist you choose should have experience successfully treating patients of all ages for a wide range of dental issues. For example, Dr. Gatgens has years of training, education, and experience under his belt, and the results to back it up. He’s known for creating beautiful smiles in Dickson, Nashville, and the surrounding communities!
Dr. Gatgens attended years of medical school and dental school in order to practice dentistry. He has years of experience helping patients, and is well known in the community for the excellent results that he regularly produces! You can be confident that your smile is in the best possible hands when you choose our expert team for your dental needs.
Ask as many questions as you need to
You should always look for a practice who will answer every question you may have in order to help you feel confident about your treatment plan. Below are some commonly asked dental questions to get the ball rolling!
- What is the scope of the proposed treatment plan?
- Are there any possible consequences if you choose to not move forward with treatment right now?
- Does the dentist personally do all the work on patients or will some of the work be completed by associates? If so, what is their level of expertise?
- What are the office hours?
- How are treatment costs determined?
- What billing or payment options will be made available to you?
- What insurance plans does the practice accept?
- Will there be any follow-up once treatment is complete?
Remember that the choice of provider is up to you. Don’t settle for a practice you aren’t comfortable with! If the answers you receive from one dentist are not satisfactory, consider continuing your search elsewhere.
Find the right fit for your smile at Accent Smile Center
One of the best ways to see if you’ve found the right dentist is to schedule an initial consultation. This first visit will generally consist of a general dental examination and a discussion about the treatment options available to you.
Your first appointment will give you a chance to ask any questions you might have and familiarize yourself with our Nashville office, too. You’ll also be able to see how the team interacts with patients and each other. This should leave you with a good idea of whether you want to proceed with treatment or not!
Choosing the right dentist for you is a personal decision. You should be prepared to take the time necessary to find one who is a good fit for you, your smile, and your lifestyle! If you’d like to learn more about how our expert team can give you a clean, healthy smile you’ll love, get in touch with us today to schedule your initial consultation!