
When I meet new patients, or those who’ve switched from another practice, I often hear the same story: finding a dentist they actually felt comfortable with was harder than it should’ve been. Maybe they weren’t sure what to look for, or a previous bad experience made them hesitant to book again. After all, trusting a stranger with your health isn’t always easy.
As a dentist, I hope I can offer some useful perspective for anyone on the hunt for a dental home they can count on. Here’s what I’d suggest keeping an eye out for.
Patient Reviews
Reviews are usually the quickest way to get a real sense of how a dentist treats the people in their chair. A gentle, attentive approach tends to show up in the ratings, but so does the opposite. If a provider is pushy or not well-suited for patients with dental anxiety, you’ll likely find that reflected in the feedback, too.
Life gets busy, but whenever you can, try browsing reviews across a few different platforms. Google, Yelp, Facebook, and even Reddit each have their own review culture, so checking more than one gives you a more well-rounded picture.
Professional Experience
There’s no shortage of talented dentists out there. A general dentist can pursue continuing education to stay current on the latest techniques and take on more complex treatments, like dental implant restorations. Others go further and specialize; for example, a periodontist focuses specifically on gum health and can offer expert-level care for gum disease.
It’s always worth taking a look at a dentist’s background and credentials. Whether you need someone who handles a broad range of services or a specialist for a specific concern, knowing what they bring to the table goes a long way toward feeling confident in your care.
Modern Technology
Every dentist can take X-rays, but would you be more inclined to show up if those X-rays were fully digital, with no bitewings or heavy lead jackets involved? If the answer is yes, it’s worth paying attention to the technology a practice uses. A lot of modern tools are designed with patient comfort and convenience in mind, and that can make a noticeable difference in your overall experience.
About the Practice
Our team here at Woodside Dental Care has proudly served the dental needs of those in Freetown and the surrounding areas for several years. Under the talented leadership of Dr. Derek Cornetta, Dr. Allie Martin, and Dr. Michelle Ostrovsky, we offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments. If you have any questions or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, call today or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (508) 644-5200.