As a consumer, it is important to know that all dentists practicing in Ontario must be certified by the RCDSO (Ontario’s official regulatory agency for the Dental profession), to the same high educational and professional standards. The RCDSO ensures the public receives safe, ethical, and high-quality dental care through rigorous inspection and evaluation processes.
In the vibrant community of Thornhill, residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to dental care providers. Finding the right dentist for your family, however, can be a daunting task, but it is an essential part of maintaining your overall dental health and wellness.
The team at Summeridge Dental has compiled a list of considerations to help you navigate the process of finding the best dentist in Thornhill to meet your specific needs:
Consider Convenience
Location is key when it comes to choosing a family dentist. Look for a practice that is easily accessed by public transportation or via car with free parking, making it easier to schedule appointments and attend regular check-ups.
(Summeridge Dental, for example, is situated in the heart of Thornhill Woods, just north of Langstaff Road at the corner of Dufferin St. and Summeridge Dr., providing easy access via York Region Transit access (Route 105) seven days per week as well as ample free parking).
Prioritize Comfort and Care
Dental visits can be anxiety-inducing for some, especially for young children. Some Dentists are licensed to provide sedation for patients to ease anxiety and make receiving dental treatment easier. There are different levels of sedation available, depending on your needs.
Evaluate the Services Offered
The Dental Clinic you choose should offer a comprehensive range of services specifically catering to the diverse dental needs of you and your family. From routine check-ups and cleanings to more advanced procedures like dental implants, crowns, and root canals, ensure that the practice you choose can handle all your family’s dental requirements. Many Dental Clinics maintain relationships with various Dental Specialist practices to ensure you are referred for excellent care when required.
Convenient Appointment Setting
Being able to easily contact staff to discuss your concerns, and set an appointment at a convenient time and date, is a must for most people searching for the best dentist in Thornhill to meet their needs on a continuing basis. Offices which offer appointment times in the early morning, in the evenings and on weekends may make it easier to set a time and day that suits your schedule.
Insurance Direct Billing
For patients who enjoy some form of Dental Insurance benefits, many offices will take care of submitting your claim directly to your insurer. This helps to ensure claims are submitted properly and saves you time and effort. Some offices will accept payment directly from your insurance company but ultimately, the patient remains responsible for any services provided and any unpaid amounts.
Fees For Services
The Ontario Dental Association publishes an annual Suggested Fee Guide to be used by Dentists in Ontario, to help determine fees that are fair and reasonable for patients and Dentists.
Patients should be made aware of the costs for all services and should take time to understand any estimates and predeterminations for more complicated procedures.
Most Thornhill Dental Offices will charge fees that are in line with the ODA Suggested Fee Guide although some will choose to charge higher fees than suggested by the guide. Feel free to ask dentists how their fees for services compare to the current ODA Fee Guide.
Evaluate Communication, Patient Education & Trust
Effective communication and patient education are crucial in the dental field. Look for a practice where the dentists, hygienists and staff take the time to listen to your concerns, explain treatments in detail, and provide valuable insights into maintaining good oral health. At Summeridge Dental, we believe patients need to feel they can trust their dentist and hygienist and should feel comfortable discussing their needs and concerns.
Check for Positive Reviews and Testimonials
In the digital age, independent and unsolicited online reviews and testimonials can provide a valuable reference when choosing a dentist. Research the practice’s reputation, read feedback from past patients, and look for indicators of exceptional customer service and patient satisfaction. Also, ask friends and family for personal recommendations for offices they have visited.
Considering these factors, you can be confident in choosing the best dentist in Thornhill for you and your family.
Summeridge Dental in Thornhill is dedicated to providing personalized, comprehensive, and compassionate dental care to the vibrant Thornhill community.
Contact us today to schedule your family’s first visit.
