Dental Health Care Needs After Moving
For many people who are about to move, it may not immediately occur to
include their dentist in their moving day list, but it’s essential. That list may
already seem long enough, but once movers have settled into their new space, it’s
best to start looking for a dental professional who is close by. Just having a
plan in place can spare individuals from putting their oral health on the back
burner and neglecting regular treatment. At first, it may seem like too much of
a hassle, but many people are much happier once the process is finished and the
next checkup appointment set up.
Final Exam
Before moving, try to squeeze in one more checkup appointment.
Getting one last exam in before moving allows for a longer grace period before
individuals need to find a new dentist. This also gives patients a chance to
talk with their current dentist about any recommendations as well as any
records that need to be transferred. Again, doing this leaves a lot less to
worry about after the move.
Continued Treatment
If patients are in the middle of treatment, recommendations from a
current dentist are the most helpful. A patient’s current dentist or
orthodontist can coordinate care with a new practitioner. This keeps individuals
from extending treatment longer than needed and prevents extra costs. Most will
allow you to pay as you go—if you’re in the process of moving, you will want to
inform a new practitioner to avoid paying extra. However, this is only
necessary if patients are moving a considerable distance. Also, make sure a new
dentist will accept your current dental plan.
New Exams
If patients need help finding a new dentist, the American Dental
Association (ADA) has a list of professionals, who are ADA members, listed in any
area. This can help narrow down the search based on your dental insurance. If
you have children, consider someone who also specializes in pediatrics. During an
initial visit, consider how attentive the dentist is and how comfortable you
feel interacting with him or her. If it isn’t a good fit, continue to look
around and weigh your options.
A new dentist is someone you will want to work with long-term. It’s
important that patients can easily talk to with their dentists and that they
are focused on helping their patients receive the best treatment available.
While looking for a new dentist, consider the following:
·Are the office hours convenient for your schedule?
·Is it a decent commute to the dentist’s office?
·Where did he or she study?
·How long has he or she been in practice?
·Does the office accept your insurance?
·Is the office clean?
·How friendly and helpful are the staff?
Did you know that you can save up to 20 percent off your
dental bills with our New Hampshire
discount dental plans
? We offer individual, family, and employee
plans for small business owners. To learn more, click here.
Copyright: stockasso
/ 123RF Stock
Photo