How can you tell if your dentist is good?

You wake up one morning – the pain in your jaw is unbearable. One side is swollen.

Can’t put it off any longer – you have to see a dentist.

But what if you’re not currently registered with a dentist?

And you’re now quickly scrolling online to find the “best dentist near me”.

How can you tell if your dentist is good? And exactly what defines a good dentist?

How do you know if a dentist is trustworthy?

Vital questions you need to have answered. The cost to your dental health – and your wallet – depends on knowing you’ll get genuine care dentistry.

Peace of mind, not more pain from poor dental treatment.

In this article – you’ll find out the key crucial questions you need to ask yourself – and your dentist – when checking out a dental clinic at your first consultation.

from:

• Dental practice credentials / qualifications, insurance and emergency care.

to:

• Whether the clinic has modern equipment, can provide a “positive experience”, the correct treatment with patient focused care and attention you would naturally expect.

and:

• If they’re close to your home, have payment plans and you can book an emergency appointment.

Sudden toothache or recently moved home?
But not registered with a dentist?
Click here to book a visit to a dentist near you without delay!

Finding a dental clinic near you

A quick and easy way to search online to find a dentist near you should start with the Australian Dental Association, who represent more than 17,000 dental practice professionals.

That’s more than 60 per cent of the 27,717 total number of individuals who offer some element of dental service across Australia. Including dental hygienists, dental therapists, and other dental services.

Different people in a dental practice will be trained and qualified to carry out specific treatments and tasks. Not all will be a general dentist.

The Top 3 Australian states with the total largest number of people working in all areas of the dental sector, as well as dentists themselves, are:

1.       New South Wales – 28.98 per cent

2.       Victoria – 24.17 per cent

3.       Queensland – 20.33 per cent

Taking one example –

In Victoria:

Of a total 20,641 dentists across Australia:

• 5,040 dentists practice in Victoria

Of a total 1,480 dental hygienists across Australia

• 218 dental hygienists practice in Victoria

Of a total 640 dental therapists across Australia

• 107 dental therapists practice in Victoria

(Source: Dental Board of Australia, 01 July-30 September, 2024)

The above figures show that in Victoria, of a total 5,365 working in dental health, around 1 in 15 (6.1 per cent) work as a dental hygienist or dental therapist*

*What does a dental therapist do?

With thousands of dental practitioners in each state of Australia offering a range of dental services – how do you work out which one’s most likely to be good for you and your needs?

Let’s dive in …

Choosing the right dental practice for you and your dental needs – what you need to check!

Do you have a positive experience?

“Going to the dentist” is much more than having that regular check-up or a tooth filling.

A positive “experience” can make all the difference in encouraging you to take more care of your dental health. Which translates to more regular dental visits and taking advice on oral hygiene.

A “good dentist” will have:

• A “patient-focused” approach, and
• Always listen carefully to your wishes and concerns.

Treatment options should always aim for:

• Minimal invasive action, and
• Patient comfort / pain management as a priority.

From receptionist desk to hygienist, therapist, and the dentist themselves. The entire team should be warm and welcoming, and helping to calm nerves!

What qualifications and experience does your dentist have?

Credentials such as training, qualifications and licensing are essential.

In Australia, before being allowed to practice your dentist must have:

IMPORTANT:

Does your dental clinic provide specialist dentistry?

Not all dentists are trained and qualified to provide specialised dental treatment. This is important to check if you require a very specific type of dentistry.

Many dentists provide a general practice. You will need to check if your dental clinic has individual dentists trained in areas such as :

• Orthodontics – prevention and treatment of conditions such as teeth alignment, straightening and jaw correction for biting down.

• Periodontics – health of teeth structure, including diseases and conditions that affect gums and jaw bone.

• Cosmetic dentistry – appearance of teeth, gums and/or bite, and improving a smile by treating conditions such as teeth colour, position, shape and size.

Dental Clinic Facilities and Cleanliness

Use of modern dental equipment and latest dental technology

Advances in dental technology enable dentists to treat conditions with greater accuracy and efficiency. It also often provides a less invasive, and more comfortable experience.  Typical refinements should include diagnostic tools such as digital X-rays, dental light curing units (LCUs) and EMS Airflow.

Clean and hygienic environment

It’s always possible to catch an infectious disease, both viral and bacterial, at a dental clinic.

A “sterile environment” should be in place, throughout. Particularly for dental tools and equipment, which should be clean and properly sterilised to Australian Dental Board standards.

Are all dentists and dental assistants always wearing gloves while carrying out treatment?

Easy and convenient to visit?

You may need to make several repeat visits for dental treatment.

How near to your home or work place is your dentist? How easy is it to travel by public transport and what are the parking arrangements? If you use a wheelchair, is there sufficient and safe access?

Accepting your Dental Insurance / payment plans

In Australia dental insurance only covers oral health care and financial support for dental services including, check-ups, teeth cleaning, dental fillings and root canals. But does not cover cosmetic dentistry. Many dental insurance policies include their preferred providers.

Making appointments and emergency care treatment

Arrangements for appointments or emergency care can differ from clinic to clinic. Check to confirm their procedures if you are concerned about making an emergency call out of hours for sudden unexpected teeth issues or conditions.

Summary

Nearly 21,000 dental practices operate across Australia today.

Finding a good and trustworthy dentist near you simply requires asking yourself a handful of easy questions, including:

• What training, qualifications and experience does the dentist have?
• Are they a general dentist or does their clinic offer specialised dentistry?
• Is the clinic clean and hygienic, and staff wearing gloves?
• Is clinic easy and convenient to visit?
• What’s their policy regarding dental insurance and payment plans?
• Can you contact them out of hours if there is an emergency?

Overall, is your visit and treatment by the dentist and staff a positive experience?

FAQs

Q: How do most people choose a dentist in Australia?

A: By asking family, friends or colleagues. You’re more likely to trust their answer and first-hand experience. You can also check out the Australian Dental Association website accredited listings.

Q: Am I eligible for free dental care in Australia?

A: Eligibility can differ from state to state but access to free dental care is generally via specific public programmes, government-funded initiatives, and alternative affordable dental care services. You will need to obtain the right Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card.

Q: What question should I ask a dentist at my first visit?

A: Ask foran examination on your current oral health. Also ask for clarification and details of any issues or concerns identified.

Not visited a dentist for a while?
Concerned you may have a tooth problem?
Speak with one of our friendly, expert dental staff today.