Looking for a top dentist is no joking matter. When it comes to your oral health and dental care it is important to properly research the dentist and make sure he or she is a legitimate professional. To select the best dentist for you it is imperative you gather as much information as you can to see if the doctor and you fit. You must dig deeper and find the dentist's dirty little secrets. Do his/her hours work with yours? Does he/she accept your insurance? All these questions are very important in making this decision.

About The Dentist

To help distinguish top dentists from the average, ask him/her the following questions:

• How many years has he/she been in practice?
• Does he/she have any specialties?
• How long has the practice been in the current location?
• Per year, how many hours of continuing education does he/she participate in?
• Does he/she belong to any dental associations?
• Is he/she involved in any teaching programs?
• Does the practice stay up-to-date on new technology and procedures?
• Is the doctor involved with any dental related research projects?

Equipment and Technology

The equipment a dentist uses is very important when it comes to the performance of a top dentist. Ask the following questions when considering different dentists:

• What equipment is used for taking x-rays?
• What are the oldest and newest pieces of equipment?
• Does the dentist use any laser technology?
• Does the dentist follow the CDC guidelines for sterile equipment and instruments?
• When the autoclave was last inspected?

Procedures and Services

Looking to have a specific procedure done? If so, you have to find a dentist that knows what he/she is doing. To figure out whether the dentist has the ability and experience to properly perform the procedure you need try asking the following questions:

• How many times per year has the dentist performed this procedure?
• Since the best dentists have loyal customers, try asking to speak with a recent patient who received the procedure you need.
• If you need a reconstructive or cosmetic surgery, ask for before and after pictures.
• What complications may arise during this procedure and how does the dentist address them?
• Does the dentist use any software to help visualize and plan treatments? If yes, which?
• Any steps that the dentist takes to minimize the number of visits to complete a treatment?

Pain-Free Dentistry

Finally, are you nervous about visiting a dentist because you have had a painful experience in the past? Then ask the dentist you are considering the following:

• What sedation treatments are available?
• Any sedation available for simple procedures?
• Is there any choice in sedation treatments?
• What health conditions may prevent you from receiving the different sedation options?
• Is the dentist reachable after hours or on weekends if there is an emergency?

All these questions may help you find the best dentist in NYC or Chicago or in any other city near you. As a prospective patient you have every right to ask as many questions as you want to feel comfortable with your choice of a top dentist.