MDEZ Find Your Family A New Dentist (NAPSA)—Each year more than 43 million people relocate. They get a new home, but often lose their old neighborhood network of contacts, including healthcare providers. In unfamiliar territory, many consumers turn to the phone book to search for a new family physician and dentist. However, this tool may not be the most reliable source of information. To help, the Academyof General Dentistry, an organization of general dentists dedicated to continuing education, provides resources for those looking for a new dentist: *By calling 1-877-2X-A-YEAR toll-free, callers connect with three Academy general dentists. * Byvisiting www.agd.org, consumers can find a dentist and search 300 oral health topics. “We want to help families that relocate connect with a new dentist, one they will feel comfortable visiting,” says Howard Zuckerman, DDS, MAGD, Academypresident. Work With Your Dentist For The Best Dental Care: Share a complete medical history. This boosts the quality of dental procedures and prevents harmful drug interactions. *Be honest about yourlifestyle choices. Do you use tobacco? Do you consume manysoft drinks? Your dentist cantell. *Become involved in your oral health care. Ask about dental procedures and get all questions answered. * Resolve concerns.First talk to your dentist. To file complaints, contact your local dental association. *Get a second opinion or find a new dentist. Start with a consultation, meet the dental team and then schedule an appointment.
