Find the Best Dentist in Federal Way, WA
If you are looking to find the best dentist near you, all the options can be overwhelming. There are many factors to take into consideration. Fortunately, there are multiple resources at your disposal to find the best dentist for you.
Find the right dentist near you at Smile Center Dental Care. We are proud to serve Federal Way and the surrounding area. We can help you with all your general oral health needs, and we can refer you out to a specialist if necessary. Call us today at (253) 336-0023 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Using Review Sites
Review sites like Yelp, Zocdoc, OpenCare, Healthgrades, and Google Business can all be useful in the process of finding a dentist. However, it is essential to know how to use and navigate these sites successfully. It is not uncommon to find false reviews, and some review sites may even hide or delete negative reviews altogether. Sort reviews by most recent to look for patterns that may indicate patterns of bad behavior.
Furthermore, keep in mind that even authentic reviews are more likely to be negative than positive. This is due to the fact that most people are more apt to write about negative experiences than they are positive ones. Look through multiple review sites to gauge what the general consensus is about the practice.
“Look through multiple review sites to gauge what the general consensus is about the practice.”
Using Word-of-Mouth Referrals
Word-of-mouth referrals are some of the most valuable insights one can get when searching for a new dentist. These types of recommendations often allow individuals to get firsthand feedback from a dentist's actual patients. According to WebMD, it may help one to ask their friends, family, neighbors, or co-workers for any referrals. Even a family doctor or local pharmacist may be able to provide a recommendation.
Patients looking for a new dentist because they are moving may also want to consider asking their current dentist if they know anyone in the area. The American Dental Association (ADA) also has a Find-a-Dentist® tool to assist individuals searching for a new dentist.
“Word-of-mouth referrals are some of the most valuable insights one can get when searching for a new dentist.”
Social Media Search
Social media represents a significant part of our everyday lives. Over recent years, medical professionals have been using this tool to draw in prospective patients. Next to Google, Facebook remains the second-largest review platform. When people search for a local dental practice on Facebook, dentists with strong recommendations typically show up at the top of search results.
Once individuals have a shortlist of options, it can help search for individual practices on Facebook. Dentists with a business page often feature posts showcasing their services, staff, and patient testimonials. This can provide valuable information about whether or not a practice would be a good fit.
Nextdoor is a less well-known social media option. This neighborhood-focused website requires users to provide proof of where they live when they join. Then they will be able to communicate with people directly in their community. This can be a great resource to find unbiased and honest patient reviews.
“Over recent years, medical professionals have been using this tool to draw in prospective patients.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: Find the Best Dentist in Federal Way, WA
Starting Your Search
Patients must know what they are looking for before they begin their search. Though any kind of dentist can offer regular checkups and cleanings, different dentists have their own unique set of skills. As such, patients should consider the type of dentistry that will best suit their needs. Patients looking to straighten their teeth, for example, should look for someone who offers orthodontic services.
Other important factors to take into consideration include the proximity of the office, the friendliness of the staff, and the convenience of the office hours. Many patients feel more comfortable knowing that their dentist is close by, especially in case of emergency. Once one has all these factors in mind, they can then begin their search.
“Patients must know what they are looking for before they begin their search.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How do I use social media to find a dentist?
Q. What other resources can I use to find a dentist?
Q. How can I incorporate review sites into my search?
Q. Who should I ask for word-of-mouth referrals?
Q. What should I know before beginning my search for a dentist?
People Also Ask
Q. How does dental insurance work?
Q. Why would a tooth need to be extracted?
Q. What is a proper cleaning routine?
Q. Why are routine dental checkups and care important?
Weighing Patient Reviews
Local and state dental societies are also good resources. One can find a list of these societies on the American Dental Association's (ADA) website. These societies will show which dentists in the community are members. Additionally, one can use the ADA website to search for member dentists in the community by location, the type of dentist, and the maximum distance from your preferred location.
Most importantly, the right dentist will be board-certified and have a current registration with their state's dental board.
“Local and state dental societies are also good resources.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How can I know what kind of dentist I need?
A. Everyone should see a dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning at least once or twice a year. However, some patients may have needs that extend beyond the scope of a general dentist. Our team can refer patients out to specialists as necessary.
Q. Why are regular dental visits necessary?
A. Regular dental visits are an integral part of preventative dentistry. They allow dentists to catch problems before they have the chance to worsen (or even occur at all).
Q. How can I find dental healthcare when I have a preexisting condition?
A. It is crucial to mention this detail to prospective dentists, as certain preexisting conditions may complicate dental healthcare. Ask potential dentists if they have any experience treating similar patients.
Q. What kind of questions should I ask a prospective dentist?
A. Patients should never feel shy to ask any questions they may have about a prospective dentist. After all, one's oral health is something to take seriously. Make sure to ask about where each dentist was educated and trained, how they approach preventative dentistry, and whether or not they offer any types of anesthesia.
Q. What are the signs of a bad dental office?
A. Warning signs of a bad dental office include a generally unkempt appearance and rude or impatient team members. Such practices also typically only offer limited treatment options and shut down any questions immediately with a rude or defensive attitude. If you feel uncomfortable about your treatment at any point, you should move onto the next dentist right away.
Dental Terminology
Finding the Right Dentist For You
Spending a little time doing the necessary research will help ensure you connect with the right dentist for your family. Call Smile Center Dental Care in Federal Way at 253-336-0023 to learn more about the services we offer.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business and website security
- Smile Center Dental Care was established in 2005.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: King County and Pierce County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Federal Way, Auburn, Kent, Des Moines, Tacoma, Fife, Milton, Edgewood, SeaTac, and Algona
- National Provider Identifier Database (1770035289). View NPI Registry Information
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Back to top of Find the Best Dentist in Federal Way