Switching dentists in Bournemouth may seem like a daunting task, but it can often be necessary for a variety of reasons. Whether you’ve relocated, are dissatisfied with your current dentist, or need specialised treatments, finding a new dental care provider can improve your experience and overall oral health.
Switching dental clinics is a simple process that involves finding and registering with a new clinic. There is no need to transfer records or go through a lengthy switching process like a Doctor.
That being said, it’s important to consider factors like the services they provide, their availability, and the practice atmosphere before making a decision. This guide will help you understand the process of changing dentists and what to look for when making the switch in more detail.
There are many reasons why someone would want to switch dental clinics including:
Other common reasons include a lack of convenient appointments as well as unwelcoming atmospheres or concerns about cleanliness.
When searching for a dentist, it’s essential to do thorough research by exploring reviews, asking for recommendations, and considering key factors like services, payment options, and location.
Do some research and find a few possible dentists. You can find options by
To help you decide on the best dentist for you consider:
It’s always a good idea to find our a bit more about what the practice is like. To do this:
Once you’ve selected a new clinician it’s time to do the admin.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure a smooth transition to your new dental care provider while maintaining continuity of care.
Registering with an NHS dentist follows the same steps as above, but many NHS practices are either full or have long waiting lists. If you do find a practice with availability, you can proceed by confirming their acceptance of new patients. To complete your registration, you’ll need to fill out a form and provide proof of identity and address. After registering, you can schedule your first appointment.
Changing dentists within the same practice can be a straightforward option if you want to continue with the same dental team but need a different specialist. Each dentist within a practice often has an area of expertise. For example, here at Smile Smile Stories some of our team are Invisalign experts, others are specialists in implantology and others like general dentistry. If you feel that another dentist in the practice might be better suited to your needs, have a chat with the staff at reception and they will sort everything out for you.
Changing dentist mid-dental treatment is possible but may require extra planning to ensure a smooth transition. If you’re in the middle of a treatment plan, it’s important to inform your current dentist about your decision and discuss how to transfer your ongoing care to a new provider.
Request your dental records and any treatment details, as these will help the new dentist continue your care seamlessly. Keep in mind that some treatments, such as braces or complex procedures, might require the new dentist to review your progress before proceeding. Make sure the new dentist is comfortable taking over and understands the work that has been done so far.
If you have a dental emergency, it’s important to act quickly. Many dental practices, like Smile Stories reserve space for emergency appointments, even if you’re not registered with them. Call local dentists to explain your situation, and they may be able to provide same-day or urgent care to address the problem and relieve pain. You can still switch to a new dentist later if needed, but for emergencies, most dentists will get you out of trouble first.
Changing dentists doesn’t have to be complicated, whether you’re moving, seeking specialised treatment, or simply looking for a better fit. By understanding the steps involved – such as checking availability, transferring records, and ensuring the new dentist offers the care you need – you can make the transition smoothly. It’s important to feel confident in your choice, as the right dentist can make all the difference in your oral health journey.
Contact Smile Stories today whether you’re looking for someone to get you out of trouble, a dental check-up, cosmetic dentistry or implants.