Choosing a dentist

Start with the kind of care you need

Most adults begin with a general dentist, who handles exams, cleanings, fillings and the referrals that come out of them. A family dentist cares for patients of all ages, which is convenient when everyone in the household wants the same office. A pediatric dentist focuses on infants, children and teens, including children with special needs. Some treatments, such as a root canal, can be referred to a specialist: an endodontist works on the pulp and the tissues around the root of a tooth.

Knowing which of these you need narrows the field quickly. If you are looking for yourself, a general or family office is the usual place to start. If you are looking for a young child, read kids and teeth before you call, because the questions are different.

What to compare between offices

The American Dental Association suggests calling or visiting more than one dentist before you decide, because dental care is personal and works best when you and the dentist get along. Compare the practical things first:

• Is the appointment schedule convenient for you?
• Is the office easy to get to from your home or job?
• Does the office look clean, neat and orderly?
• Is your medical and dental history recorded and kept in a permanent file?
• Does the dentist explain how to prevent problems and give you dental health instruction?
• Are there arrangements for emergencies outside office hours? Most dentists work with a colleague or an emergency referral service.
• Is information about fees and payment plans provided before treatment is scheduled?

The same list also asks whether the dentist is a member of the American Dental Association, whose members agree to follow a code of ethics. It is a reasonable question to ask the front desk.

Questions to ask when you call

A five minute phone call tells you a lot. Ask which insurance plans the office accepts and whether it accepts public programs, how soon a new patient can be seen, how long a first visit usually takes and what it costs without insurance. Ask whether the office can request your X-rays from a previous dentist so you do not repeat them. Ask how the office handles a toothache or a broken tooth on a weekend. The answers show how the office treats patients, and whether a first visit there will feel organized.

For cost questions in more detail, see dental cost and insurance. To confirm a license before you book, use the steps in checking a dentist's license.

What the first visit tells you

You can usually tell during a first visit whether an office is right for you. Notice whether the dentist or hygienist listens to your concerns, explains what they see, and gives you time to ask questions. Notice whether treatment options come with plain explanations of the steps, and whether you leave knowing what happens next. If something feels rushed or unclear, it is fine to keep looking. Read your first dental visit to know what a normal first appointment includes.

Comparing offices in St. Louis Park

St. Louis Park has dental offices along Excelsior Boulevard on the east side and along Highway 7 and Texas Avenue on the west side. The directory of St. Louis Park dentists shows each office with its address, phone number, website and a map, so you can pick the ones closest to home or work. Start with the east side or the west side, then open two or three profiles and call.

• Browse the directory
• St. Louis Park
• Your first dental visit

Common questions