Many think that a choosing a private dentist means more expensive. But it’s not that simple. Private usually means better quality, value and more effective treatment covering a wider scope of treatment modalities not normally available on the NHS. We’ll delve into why you should choose private over public.
With a groundbreaking new study revealing that private dentists are more motivated than NHS dentists, you have to wonder, is it time to go private? The study by the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) found that most dentists would be happier if they treated only private patients. The study analysed levels of morale and motivation in relation to a number of factors. These included weekly pay, annual leave and division of time between clinical and non-clinical work and private dentistry. The HSCIC found that those who do more private work were more motivated that those who do mainly NHS work. But why is this?
Following years of pay squeezes in the NHS, it’s hardly surprising that dentists who do more private work are more motivated and better qualified in their careers. But it doesn’t just come down to pay. Many patients assume that private simply means more expensive, but this is hardly the case. Choosing a private dentist means you’ll often receive unrestricted and better treatment. As a patient, it means you’ll get far more choice in making your teeth the best they can be.
Flexibility
The NHS is extremely restricted in the flexibility of options they can offer to patients. A number of treatments aren’t available on the NHS, including cosmetic dentistry and tooth whitening. In fact, treatment can only be offered if it’s strictly for functional and absolutely necessary reasons. Private dentists offer a wide range of treatment, from functional fixes to dental implants and preventative measures, such as sealants for low-risk decay patients hence being able to work on preventing issues before they occur.
Not only that, but private dentists offer far more flexibility in terms of booking an appointment. With our work lives and families, it’s often difficult to justify taking the time out to go to an appointment which may not be our highest priority. It’s incredibly important to visit your dentist regularly, as health checks can detect anything from a cavity to a more complex condition. But if you have to pick your children up at half 3, it’s not ideal to have an appointment that doesn’t work around your private life. With an NHS dentist, you’re tied to certain working hours whereas by going private, you’re able to book in at any time, including the evening and weekends.
The Cost of Going Private
While NHS treatment is typically cheaper, that also means their equipment and facilities are, too. Private treatment gives dentists the freedom to provide the very best in treatment and materials, using state of the art technology including computerised imaging and intra-oral cameras. These will help us prepare the right dental plan for you, all in a welcoming, comfortable environment. Your dentist will also discuss your treatment options and the costs involved before you commit to anything, so you’re fully aware of what will happen before you proceed.
Quick, Customised Treatment
Sometimes, a quick fix is needed. Want a perfect smile within six months? Or perhaps your teeth are giving you grief and you want fast, effective treatment? By going private, you’ll be given fast treatment by a dedicated specialist, even for more difficult procedures (such as an extraction). Also, you can be certain that your treatment will be entirely customised to your oral health needs. Dentists will look at your diet and give you practical advice on any other aspects to ensure your dental health is kept at its optimum.
No Waiting Times
With publically funded dentists, for more advanced treatment, you’ll often be placed on a waiting list, which could take several months before you’re even seen by a consultant. We all know how much pain our teeth can cause us – it can be agonising – and sometimes all we want is to be seen and treated quickly and properly.
What Should You Look For?
We’ve looked at the benefit of private dentistry, but what should you look for in a dentist?
Look at Experience
There are many cases where individuals have gone to a dentist, only to have to suffer twice the pain and cost because of a poor job. One of the most important factors is finding a dentist you can trust, and who has experience in performing the work you want done. Ensure your dentist is fully qualified and in your consultation, ask about the experience they have. At Fresh Dental Smile Clinic we offer free consultations with the dentist so it’s a great opportunity to come in and have a chat and meet the dentist without any obligation.
Feeling Comfortable
Even if you don’t fear the dentists, it can still be daunting, which is one of the main reasons we put it off. Trust your gut instinct here – does the dentist make you feel at ease? Do they provide comfortable surroundings where you can relax, and do you feel looked after? With a quality private dentist, they won’t hesitate to answer any questions you have. You want to feel safe and that your dentist is putting you first.
Finding a private dentist you trust can be difficult. However, it’s completely worthwhile. Whatever your needs, a quality private dentist will put you first, give you a wide range of treatment options and allow you to book an appointment whenever suits you.
At Fresh Dental Smile Clinic, we make our customers our number one priority. We specialise in putting our customers at ease, even if the mere thought of a dentist makes you break out in a cold sweat. Our specialists are all fully qualified, experienced, and dedicated to providing the best service. If you’re looking for a private dentist in York, why not get in touch today?
