
We’ve put together a list of the best dentists in the Albury area. Photo: Puhimec.
For many, the thought of visiting the dentist can come with a wave of anxiety. But even when you do build up the courage to make an appointment, choosing a dentist can have its own difficulties. Making sure you have the right dentist looking after your oral health is vital in saving you money, time and in some cases, pain.
An experienced dental surgery will work with you to establish a pattern of early intervention, identifying issues before they become serious, and helping you avoid larger, more costly future problems. While an average dentist may provide band-aid solutions, an exceptional one will work with you to anticipate problems and prevent them through a range of measures, like correcting dental hygiene or surgery.
Clinical experience should be at the top of your list of priorities but in addition to this, it’s important that your dentist is someone with whom you can form a relationship, as it means that as a medical professional, they can better understand your unique problems as well as the solutions you may prefer.
It is also vital that you identify the field of dentistry which you need care in. Dentists can specialise in cosmetics, orthodontics, children’s dentistry or general dentistry and while many clinics will offer a general service suite, it’s important to investigate what care they can provide to best suit your needs.
What makes a great dentist?
- Transparency and accountability. Do a bit of research and see what you can find online or get in touch directly with a dentist you may be considering. If it’s easy to find information about services and prior treatments, it should give you more insight and confidence in their skill set and performance. When it comes to accountability, a picture is worth a thousand words. Why not ask for the dentist’s ”before-and-after” examples to get a first-hand look at their quality of work. Great dentists, like the rest of us, like to show off what they can achieve.
- Commitment and consistency: Like your GP, a dentist should be a long-term commitment and it’s a relationship that should be equal. A great dentist will be committed to your care and should make sure you are following dental instructions and attending appointments. They will be just as invested in your dental health as you are. In turn, you will be rewarded with a continuity of care, which will be far more beneficial to your long-term oral health. With any professional service, consistency also matters. You must be confident that your dentist can get great results every time. This is helpful if the practice allows you to see the same dentist each visit, as they will know your specific needs.
- Experience and qualifications. The more experience a dentist has, the more likely they are to know how to fix your problem. If your dentist is a new graduate, ensure they are working under the supervision of a more experienced dentist at the practice who can help guide their work. To that end, qualifications are just as important as experience. Have they pursued further postgraduate or professional studies to hone their skills and keep up to date with the latest research? It’s important to double-check that a dentist has the qualifications they claim they have.
- Investment in the practice. Like investing in their qualifications and further professional development, a good dentist will also invest in their practice and equipment. Advances in dentistry equipment have resulted in more predictable treatment outcomes with better results and less risk. A well-equipped, modern dental practice is a vital and often overlooked component of an effective practice.
- Value. Cost is a number, while value is what you get for that number. The best investment is unlikely to cost the least, so choosing a dentist based purely on the lowest price can carry some consequences. Dental health is an investment and there is no sense in always pursuing the lowest cost, as the care may be of a lower quality. Ensuring your dentist is focusing on the value and outcome achieved rather than the price of your visit will result in the best possible service.
The best dentists in Albury
Region Riverina has combed through online reviews and recommendations to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best in Wagga series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Riverina and Facebook as well as maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
If you’re after more information on the great services the Riverina has to offer, our articles on the best dentists in Wagga, the best optometrists in Wagga and the best sleep clinics in Wagga.
Your experience with dentists in Albury
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Do you have experience with any of the dentists listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
According to the Australian Dental Association, it’s recommended you should visit the dentist for an examination and hygiene treatment every six to 12 months. This may vary depending on the health of teeth and gums.
Do any Albury dentists offer bulk billing?
Several Albury dentists offer bulk-billing services. It’s best to check with each dentist to find out whether your treatment is eligible for bulk billing.
When should my child first visit the dentist?
The Australian Dental Association recommends taking your child for their first dental appointment by 12 months of age or when their first tooth becomes visible. If you notice anything that seems out of the ordinary before either milestone is reached, you should make an appointment.
Can I get cosmetic dentistry work done in Albury?
Most clinics these days offer a vast array of cosmetic procedures, alongside general dentistry. It’s best to check with your practice and ask for a recommendation if they don’t offer the procedure you are looking for.