If you’re one of the millions of Americans frustrated by the service they’re receiving, it’s natural that you want to know how to switch dentists. The problem is that the process can feel stressful and overwhelming if you don’t know what to do.
You’ll naturally have concerns about record transfers and insurance compatibility. The time and energy it takes can also leave you feeling really stressed about choosing the right dentist. The good news for you is that we’re ready to guide you through everything you need to know with our comprehensive guide.
Let’s dive into the details and walk you through the process!
If you don’t know how to switch dentists, rest assured that you have landed in the right place. The first thing you need to do is find a skilled dentist you can trust. Here are some of the key things to check so that you get off to a fast start:
Once you have worked through each of these steps, you will be ready to make your first appointment.
Changing dentists doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming if you break things down into simple steps. Work through these 3 steps one by one, and you will be meeting your new dentist before you know it.
Having the option to speak to a human the first time you book is a real plus point. You can ask them anything you need to know, including the next 2 steps.
Many dental practices will ask to verify your insurance and conduct an exploratory x-ray. Knowing what will happen will remove a lot of the stress.
Make sure you know how to cancel or reschedule your appointment in the event that your plans change without warning. This will ensure you understand your options at every stage.
Follow our steps on how to change dentists and you will make progress in no time at all.
Changing dentists is all about quick and efficient communication. Contact the receptionist and let them know that you are moving dentists. You don’t have to give a reason, but they may ask you. If you prefer not to say because you want to leave on good terms, simply say that you’re looking to relocate.
You may find that it is less stressful to send an email so that you’re not speaking directly with anyone. This will also ensure that you have a written record of everything in case you need to refer back to it later on.
One of the most commonly asked questions is: Can I switch dentists in the middle of a procedure? Yes, you can, but you need to make sure the treatment plan is discussed in detail beforehand. In many cases, your current dentist will communicate directly with your new dentist to make sure your case is handed over correctly. This is also when records are transferred.
Knowing how to transfer dental records is one of the biggest gray areas of the whole process. We have broken everything down into simple steps so that you never have to worry about a thing.
Knowing how to switch dentists includes asking your new dentist if they have space in their surgery for you. Some dentists will have waiting lists, which means you may not be able to get an appointment right away. As part of the initial discussions, you will also need to ask if they need your records in a digital or paper format.
You will need to request a transfer of records when you switch dentists. There may be a nominal fee if paper copies need to be printed out and mailed to the new dentist. Budget for this and make the payment promptly to avoid confusion or time-consuming delays.
Transferring dental records can sometimes take a little longer than you would like. Don’t be shy about proactively chasing your old dentist for an update if things are taking too long.
Meeting your new dentist will go so much smoother if you know what to expect before you arrive. Work your way through the key steps below to make sure you have all the information you need on day one.
Make sure you have all of your key details to hand. These include your address, contact number, and insurance policy numbers. Completing the paperwork in a timely fashion will make it much easier to start treatment with your new dentist.
Let them know your background so that they are up to speed without delay. If you have a bad tooth that causes intermittent pain that comes and goes, this is the time to tell them.
Some types of medication can impact your oral health. Making sure your new dentist knows what you take and what you’ve taken in the past can help them build up a clear picture of what’s going on.
Millions of Americans experience varying degrees of stress and anxiety when visiting the dentist. Tell your dentist how you feel, and they will be able to provide you with all the help and support you need.
Common conditions like diabetes and heart disease can negatively impact your oral health. Telling your new dentist about your overall health will allow them to figure out whether or not they need to make any special precautions.
Long waiting times, high prices, and poor service are the most common reasons to change dentists. A recent study on dental patient satisfaction found that only 9% of dentists whose service was deemed ‘unfriendly’ adequately met the needs of their patients. Sometimes, finding a new dentist is about nothing more than finding a friendly face who you know will listen to you.
If you are experiencing any of the following, it may be time to consider a change:
If your dentist doesn’t listen to you, it can be frustrating and stressful to deal with them. You probably feel that you are not receiving the right level of care or the kind of treatment you need. No one should have to put up with this.
No one wants a nasty surprise in the mail when the bill is more than expected due to accidental overbilling. The same is true if your current dentist has an annoying habit of constantly trying to upsell treatments you don’t need.
If your current dentist is rather inflexible in terms of appointment times, this can cause issues with work and home life. You should be able to get appointments that fit seamlessly around everyday life.
Limited appointments to choose from and long waiting times to be seen are something else that you are probably having to deal with right now. The frustration of having to put off urgent treatment is no doubt adding to your daily stress.
When you notice that your dentist doesn’t have the latest equipment or the best possible hygiene levels, you’re understandably keen to move. Poor standards could be putting your health at risk right now.
If you have moved to a new part of the country, chances are you will need to know how to find a new dentist. Follow this guide for everything you need to know.
Switching dentists becomes so much simpler when you follow our top tips below:
It’s perfectly normal to change your dentist. Practices and surgeries handle these types of transfers every single day.
Dentistry is a business like any other. The receptionist or insurance agent isn’t going to take your switch personally.
Tell the point of contact you’re moving, and leave it at that. There’s no need to elaborate if you don’t want to.
Want to know how to switch dentists without an ounce of stress? All you have to do is connect with a trusted dental professional so that you can:
Work through this guide one step at a time. Once you connect with us, don’t forget to ask about our dental membership plan to help spread the cost.
Keep it simple. Call the receptionist and let them know. If you prefer to do it in writing so you have a record, send them an email.
Yes, we can guide you through everything you need to know from the moment you connect with our expert team.
Contact NZEDM for the best service and patient experience in your local area.
There may be a small fee for the transfer of paper patient records. We can break down all the costs so you know exactly what to expect.
You are well within your rights to ask for a different dentist. People do this every single day and it is nothing to be worried about.
Yes, just make sure that your new dentist and old dentist communicate with one another so that nothing is missed. We can help ensure this is never an issue for you.