Are you looking for a dentist in or near Hamden, CT? When it comes to finding a new dentist, whether you’re new to the area or simply in need of a change, do you know what to look for? If you want to find the best dentist, there are certain characteristics that set some dentists apart from the rest.
Connecticut Magazine publishes a yearly list of the best dentists in the state as voted on by their peers. I believe the qualities of a “best” dentist should include the following attributes:
- Educated at a top notch dental school. A quality education matters when it comes to finding a great dentist. Pay attention to the dentist’s credentials and where they earned them. Some dental schools are more prestigious than others, meaning they are harder to be accepted to and offer more rigorous programming. You want a dentist who earned their degree through hard work.
- Residency training at a major trauma hospital. All dentists should complete a residency program at a hospital where they deal with medically compromised patients and learn how to treat patients who have experienced dental trauma. Look into this part of a dentist’s qualifications to determine where they completed their residency.
- Further postgraduate training. A top notch dentist should never stop learning. Look for a dentist that shows evidence of postgraduate training, whether at local or regional schools and even online. Dentists can attend seminars and training symposiums to learn new techniques and how to perfect current procedures. Choose a dentist that values continued education.
- Being an educator. Not only should a dentist pursue continuing education, they should also be willing to teach. I was an attending at Yale New Haven Hospital for decades. Every month I lectured my residents as well as oversaw the treatment of patients in the hospital clinic. I believe that new dentists should be well versed in 20th century dental concepts before they can embrace new 21st century technology. By passing knowledge on to other dentists, it improves the entire field of dentistry in addition to their own private practices.
- Involvement in organized dentistry. Look for a dentist who is affiliated with dental organizations such as the American Dental Association as well as local and regional chapters of such organizations. A dentist who takes the initiative to join and upkeep memberships and even serve in leadership roles for organized dental groups is a dentist who is committed to the field.
- Strives for excellence. A “best” dentist will be constantly improving and looking for opportunities to offer better dental services to patients. Look for evidence of constant refinement in any dentist you choose. Having the ability to communicate to patients succinctly and comprehensively is incredibly important especially in anxious patients.
- Empathy. One of the most important qualities of anyone who provides a health service of any kind, is empathy. In dentistry, the patient should be the first priority. A “best” dentist will be able to empathize with patients in order to provide the best possible care.
- Outstanding communication skills. You need a dentist (and support staff) who has outstanding communication skills. Communication between dentist and patient, as well as between dentist and support staff, is crucial for the best possible care to be provided.
Connecticut’s Best Dentist: Dr. Nishan Halim, DMD
Dr. Nishan Halim, DMD, is a beacon of innovation in cosmetic dentistry. With over 15 years of experience and a passion for transforming smiles, Dr. Halim’s approach is deeply personal and rooted in the belief that dentistry is not just about teeth, but about impacting lives. Dr. Halim, a distinguished alumnus of the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, brings a profound dedication to the art and science of cosmetic dentistry. His journey in dentistry is marked by a deep-seated passion for not just improving the visual aspects of smiles but also boosting patients’ self-esteem and overall well-being. This dedication is evident in his commitment to continuous education, actively participating in local study clubs and immersing himself in extensive Continuing Education courses annually. His pursuit of knowledge ensures that the practice remains at the cutting edge of dental advancements, offering patients state-of-the-art treatments and consistently superior results.
Outside the office, Dr. Halim cherishes time spent with his family. Together with his loving wife and three wonderful children, they enjoy biking along nature trails and spending quality time together at home. This strong family foundation is a cornerstone of his life, providing unwavering support that fuels his passion for both his professional and personal endeavors.
If you are interested in becoming a patient of Dr. Halim, call (203) 248-7400 today or contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to having you join our practice as a new patient.