Why Grin & Bear It? Do Your Homework First

After reading this recent news article about a Chinese woman suing a dentist over bungled treatment I asked myself this:

•  £1200 for 12 crowns is incredibly cheap. Even if you had no idea of the cost of crowns surely you would go away and compare the cost before getting the work done. Had she done this it would have raised alarm bells because the price was very low even for professional cosmetic dentistry work
•  This would have then led to her checking the clinic out more thoroughly and finding out the dentist was unlicensed

The article doesn't say whether or not this unfortnate woman had used the clinic before, but if she hadn't then she's had both a painful and costly learning experience when it comes to finding a suitable dentist. 

Check your Dentist Out

It's important to know what you are looking for when choosing a cosmetic dentist. Here are some tips which will ensure that anyone looking here in the UK will find one that is fully qualified, regulated by a suitable professional organisation and can be trusted to do a good job.

•  All dentists and dental professionals working in the UK must be registered with the General Dental Council (GDC) who regulate and set the standards for dentists here in the UK.
•  To check whether or not a dentist is registered to practice in the UK you can check here
•  Check whether the dental practice has any patient testimonials you can check
•   Ask to see pictures of their work-before and after. Most good dentists will have a patient gallery they can show you
•   Ask friends and family if they can recommend a good dentist
•   Before deciding on which dentist arrange an initial consultation with him/her. It is important you find a dentist you feel comfortable with as you should be looking for a long term oral health care partnership with your dentist

Visit Your Dentist

When you visit the dental practice

•  Find out what the dentist's approach is to preventative dentistry
•  Does the clinic appear to be clean, tidy and organised?
•  Are the other dental staff helpful and willing to answer any questions you may have?
•  Do the dentist and dental nurse use gloves during patient treatment?
•  Do they offer evening/weekend appointments

By doing your homework you will find a dentist that is qualified, competent and one you feel comfortable with which is definitely something to smile about.