The internet can be a bit of a double-edged sword sometimes. If you’re looking for a dentist in Canadian County it’s easier than ever to simply look up who is in your area. How are you supposed to figure out which dentist is right for you and your family?

Today, we’re going to make your search much simpler by telling you the 3 most important things you should look for when choosing a dentist.  

1. Look at their list of services

This will immediately let you know if a practice might be right for you. Basically, do they offer the kinds of dental treatments you are seeking? Is the practice able to treat patients of all ages?  Do they have before and after photos of sample procedures? Do they offer a FREE First Visit™? At El Reno Family Dentistry, we offer a FREE First Visit™ to every new patient. This includes exam with dentist and x-rays. Then you and your dentist can discuss the best treatment plan for you. We present the options for you and you always decide what is best for you and your family.

2. Look at the doctor’s experience

Every year, dental schools in the US and Canada produce about 6,000 dentists, orthodontists, and various other dental specialists. While most of these schools are excellent, you definitely wouldn’t want to visit a dentist who hasn’t had time to experience the real world. You want one who has had several years on the job and a proven track record. Our patient reviews at El Reno Family Dentistry tell the story.  Patient after patient touts Dr. Cohlmia as an excellent dentist. Our team has years of experience. That is why we proudly say we are El Reno’s Most Caring Dental Office™.

3. Check for advanced credentials

AEGD, which stands for Advanced Education in General Dentistry, is a key credential to look for. The University of Oklahoma AEGD program is very competitive to get into and requires an additional year of dental education on top of completing dental school. After completing an AEGD program, a dentist will be able to better:

• Provide a comprehensive range of dental care
• Make clinical judgements and diagnoses
• Formulate effective treatment plans
• Know when to refer patients to specialists

As a patient, you know the following when someone has completed an AEGD program:

1. They are committed to providing the highest-quality dentistry possible.
2. They have more knowledge and skill than many general dentists.
3. They made a time and financial investment in addition to their DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery).

It enables a dentist to provide a unique and superior level of care, which is a huge benefit for their patients.  All in all, it pretty much means that a dentist has taken the extra time to become the best care-giver they can be, and no matter what your dental needs might be, that’s probably exactly what you’re looking for.

Your Search is Over!…Hopefully

By just looking at these 3 things, you’ll be able to sift through the pile of search results and find the perfect dentist for you and your family. Before you know it, you’ll be in the treatment chair with the satisfaction of knowing you made the right decision.

Dr. Adam Cohlmia is a general, cosmetic, and family dentist based in El Reno, Oklahoma. In 2012, he completed an AEGD program at the University of Oklahoma, a very competitive program where he studied procedures such as implant dentistry, full mouth rehabilitation, and various cosmetic treatments. He practices at El Reno Family Dentistry, and he can be contacted through his website or by phone at (405) 262-6737.