Moving to a New Area? Here’s How to Find a Dentist Fast

If you are moving to a new area, you will need to find a dentist to ensure that you and your loved ones receive essential dental care. Settling into a new neighborhood is exciting, but it is also extremely chaotic as you move boxes, fill out change-of-address forms, and try to locate the nearest grocery store. Let us go over how to keep your search for a general dentist from adding to your stress.

Simple ways to find a dentist quickly

Places to start a search for a new dentist include the following. 

1. Online

A patient's first stop in their quest to locate a dentist should be the internet. Start with the American Dental Association's free directory at ADA.org for a list of dentists in one's zip code. Also, enter phrases like "dentist near me" into search engines like Google to generate lists of the closest clinics to one's location. Be sure to note crucial details, such as office hours, photos, and patient reviews, during the search.

2. Dental insurance network

This step is non-negotiable if the patient has dental insurance. They should log into their insurance provider's portal or call the customer service line for a list of in-network dentists in their new zip code. Choosing an in-network provider maximizes the patient's benefits and minimizes their out-of-pocket expenses for procedures like checkups, teeth cleanings, and fluoride treatments.

3. Local community

Never underestimate the power of good old-fashioned word-of-mouth! Ask for recommendations from:

• Real estate agent: They know the area intimately and often have local contacts.
• New neighbors or coworkers: They live and/or work nearby and can share firsthand experiences.
• Local social media groups: Create new threads by posting simple questions like “Just moved to [area]! Any recommendations for a great general dentist?”
• Current dentist: Patients should ask their current dentist about any colleagues in their new location. The dental world can be surprisingly small!

Find a dentist who is right for you

Finding a dentist is not just about proximity; it's about finding the right fit for the patient's lifestyle. When they are narrowing down their list, they should consider factors like services offered, location, and patient reviews.

Once they have found a few promising options, they should send a message online or call. The latter is the preferred means of communication when evaluating new clinics because it enables the patient to get a feel for the office's customer service right away. The patient should make a list of questions to ask beforehand, to ensure that all their concerns are addressed. They should also find out the availability for new patients and typical wait times and confirm that the clinic accepts their insurance plan.