Signs of a bad dentist
While many people would agree that maintaining good dental health requires regular dental visits, some are reluctant to schedule a dental appointment because they fear the procedures, the expense and even the dentist himself.
Having a negative experience at the dentist can compound this problem, leaving a lingering bad association with going to the dentist that can prevent people from returning. Knowing what makes a bad dentist, however, can help in the dentist-selection process.
Be suspicious if the staff spends an inordinate amount of your appointment time itemising numerous costly procedures, then requests payment in full before the dentist will begin work. On the website "Choosing a Dentist," Stuart A.
Green of DDS-FAGD states: "Your dentist should be willing to discuss fees and payment plans in advance." An unwillingness to work out payment arrangements communicates a lack of concern for patients and is often a sign of a bad dent.al practice. Establishing a positive reciprocal relationship centred on patients receiving quality, affordable dental care should be the primary focus of any dental visit
Watch out if the dentist barely glances at your pre-appointment questionnaire, fails to consider your budget constraints and dismisses your concerns. In addition, it's a bad sign if the dentist recommends expensive procedures, such as root canals or scaling, every single time you visit--unless, of course, you have major gum disease or other diagnosed health issues that warrant such procedures. If the dentist acts perturbed when you question the need to carry out the recommended procedures, it may be advisable to find a new dentist.
A good dentist will be able to administer treatment in a gentle manner that minimises a patients' pain.
On the other hand, a bad dentist will be unnecessarily rough while performing routine care, such as cleaning teeth or giving shots, resulting in needless pain for the patient. As a result, patients may not return to complete work started and may resist making future dental appointments, thereby placing their health at risk.
A bad dentist will perform shoddy work. Instead of lasting for years, fillings may fall out, veneers may pop off and crowns will come loose soon after the work is completed. Some bad dentists' first recommendation when a patient complains of a problem with a tooth may be to pull it.
A dusty office, dirty rugs and dull-looking equipment create the impression that the environment is not sterile.
A discourteous staff also contributes to a negative atmosphere that reflects poorly on the practice. A dentist who keeps patients waiting long after their scheduled appointments and who fails to allot enough time to complete procedures creates an bad overall impression and contributes to an atmosphere that shows a lack of respect for patients.