Why did you choose your dental office?

After 34 years of asking my patients this same question, here is a consensus.

• The phone is answered after no more than three rings
• No phone menus; a real human answers the phone. (Although I have had some former employees where “human” may be a stretch.)
• A friendly clear, coherent voice answers all questions pertaining to fees, insurance, policies, etc.
• The office is clean and appears up to date.
• I received a personal note card form the doctor after the consultation visit.
• The doctor’s staffs are all friendly; not hardened and worn out as if they should have retired 5 to 10 years ago.
• Uniforms of staff are neat and clean and appear to actually fit, vs. one-size fits all uniforms from strip mall stores. (There is a very high-end brand of uniforms called Figs that look very professional)
• Physical appearance of the doctor.
• Personality of the doctor; sense of humor, bedside manner.
• Ability to explain dental treatment in layman’s terms.
• Tone of voice that seems genuinely interested.
• All payment policies are explained and backed up in writing.
• Minimal pain if any is felt during all procedures.
• Hi tech devices, which make dental treatment faster and more comfortable: digital no-goop impressions, electronic anesthesia machines, lasers that replace scalpels.
• The use of the tissue punch technique for implant surgery; no incisions, flaps or sutures.
• Quieter electric drills vs. air turbine drills.
• Digital X-rays for less radiation exposure.
• Metal Free all porcelain crowns and veneers for optimum esthetics.
• They all me at night to check on me after a procedure.
• Dentists had no sign of halitosis/bad breath.
• Procedures where done quickly; my mouth was not jacked open for hours just to have one crown.
• Post op instructions were explained and given in written form.
• I get the same doctor no matter what day of the week I am scheduled.
• The hygienist takes at least one hour to clean my teeth.
• An intra-oral camera shows me what the doctor is seeing in my mouth; I trust him more.
• Small thoughtful gifts sent to me should I refer a patient.