Burlingame Dental Arts in Portland, OR

5 Tips to Help You Find The Best Dentist For Your Needs

added on: February 21, 2023

Finding the best dentist in Portland depends on what you’re looking for in a provider. The truth is, your dentist is a key part of your healthcare team and you need to feel comfortable, confident, and trust in their care. After all, you will be seeing them at least twice a year for preventive checkups and cleanings, so it’s important to find someone you like. Here are five tips to help you find the best dentist for your individual needs. 

  • Get Recommendations

While you head online and search for “dentist near me,” one of the easiest ways to quickly narrow your search is to talk to those around you. Ask friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers about their dentists to easily generate a short list of choices. 

  • Read Reviews

After you get a few recommendations, head online to read reviews of dentists in Portland. Online reviews are a great way to get an understanding of the general feelings about the level of dental care, personality of the team, and pros and cons. 

  • Check Out Their Work

Patients who are particularly interested in advanced dental care such as cosmetic dentistry or dental implants should check out dentists’ previous work. Many dentists will feature before and after photos on their websites so you can get an idea of their level of care. 

  • Evaluate Their Services

Some dental offices offer most services under one roof while others have a particular focus in specific areas. Depending on your individual needs, you will want to look into the types of services offered at different offices. Also consider their technology and how it can help make dental care easier. 

  • Check Them Out in Person

The best way to get a feel for a dentist and their team is to visit them in person. An initial visit or consultation will give you a sense of the office environment and personality. While  patients may prioritize different things, it’s always important that you feel the office is clean and that you’re being listened to and respected. 

While it may seem like a daunting task, taking some time to get to know your options when it comes to choosing the best dentist in Portland can benefit you in the long run. Start by making a list of the things that matter to you the most when it comes to selecting a dentist, then get to work researching dentists in your area. Keep in mind, the more comfortable you are with your dentist, the more likely you are to keep up with regular appointments. Seeing your dentist at least twice a year is crucial to maintaining good oral health and can keep dental problems away.  

About The Author
Dr. Amanda Tinkle

Dr. Amanda Tinkle was a dentist and dental practice owner in Vancouver, Canada for seven years before moving back to Oregon to join her former dental classmate as a partner at Burlingame Dental Arts. Her commitment to her community and profession is evident in her dedication to providing quality dental care while balancing family life.