Why choosing the right dentist matters
A dentist is not a service provider like any other. They are a professional with whom you build a relationship over time — someone who knows your clinical history, your concerns, your priorities. A good dentist does not just perform treatments correctly: they help you prevent problems, explain options without rushing, and put you at ease even when the dental chair is not your favourite place.
Choosing poorly can be costly: inadequate treatments, superficial diagnoses, opaque communication about costs. Choosing well, on the other hand, means having a trusted reference for years to come. Here are the questions that help you find the right fit.
The 5 questions to ask yourself
Do they explain everything clearly, without rushing?
A trustworthy dentist takes the time to explain what they have found, what treatment options are available, and the risks and benefits of each. They should never make you feel embarrassed about questions you ask, nor present a treatment plan without discussing it with you first. The first visit is a good test: if you feel listened to and informed, that is a positive sign. If you leave with unresolved doubts, think twice.
Does the practice use up-to-date technology?
Technology is not just a feature: it affects diagnostic precision, treatment quality, and patient comfort. Digital X-rays (which reduce radiation exposure), 3D intraoral scanners, digital implant planning, laser: these tools are not standard everywhere. You do not need to choose the most "technological" dentist, but an up-to-date practice signals investment in quality. During your first visit, observe the environment and do not hesitate to ask what tools they use.
Are there verified reviews from other patients?
Google reviews are today one of the most useful tools for getting a concrete sense of a practice. Look not only at the average rating, but also at the number of reviews (the more, the more reliable the data) and especially the content: patients talk about communication, punctuality, results, pain management, and cost transparency. How the dentist responds to negative reviews says a lot about their approach. A practice with 200+ five-star Google reviews is not a coincidence: it is the result of years of consistent work.
Is the estimate transparent and detailed?
A serious estimate is not a number on a piece of paper. It is a document that explains what will be done, why, how many sessions, with which materials, and at what total cost — including any alternatives. Beware of "surprise" estimates that grow during treatment. Always ask: is the quoted price final? What happens if complications arise? Is payment in instalments possible? An honest professional answers these questions without difficulty, already from the first visit.
Do you feel welcomed, not judged?
Many people postpone dental care for years out of fear or embarrassment about the state of their teeth. A good dentist knows this is completely normal and never judges. They meet patients where they are, explain what can be done and how, and gradually build trust. If after the first visit you feel at ease — even if the clinical situation is complex — you have found the right dentist.
Would you like to meet Dr. Luigi di Bari and the practice?
Visit the practice page or book your first appointment directly.
What you will find at our studio
At Dr. Luigi di Bari Dental Studio in Manfredonia, the first visit is always a moment for listening. We explain every aspect of the clinical situation, present available options with a detailed and transparent estimate, and do not begin any treatment until the patient has understood and agreed on the path forward.
With over 22 years of experience, 500+ documented implant cases and more than 215 verified Google reviews, we believe trust is built one patient at a time — every day, without rushing.
You can see the results of our work in the Before & After section, read patient reviews, or consult the FAQ for answers to the most common questions.
Dental anxiety: an often overlooked criterion
For many people the difficulty is not finding a technically capable dentist — it is finding one with whom they feel safe. Dental anxiety is extremely common: it is estimated that between 15 and 20% of adults have significant anxiety related to dental care, and many postpone necessary treatment for years because of it.
You can recognise a good dentist by how they handle this anxiety: whether they minimise it ("it's nothing, it won't hurt") or whether they take it seriously, respect it, and adapt their approach accordingly. If you suffer from dental anxiety, we have written a dedicated article on how we manage dental anxiety at our studio — it might help you decide whether our approach is right for you.
How to evaluate a dental estimate
A serious estimate must be written, detailed, and understandable. It must list every treatment item, the materials used (zirconia vs metal-ceramic, implant brand, etc.) and the associated costs. Be wary of verbal estimates or those that lump everything into a single figure with no explanation. And be wary of anyone who pressures you to sign immediately: a significant prosthetic or implant journey deserves reflection.
A second opinion on extensive treatments is always legitimate and serious professionals know this — in fact, they encourage it. If in doubt, comparing two written estimates from two different practices gives you a much stronger basis for deciding.
Article written by Dr. Luigi di Bari, Dental Studio in Manfredonia (FG). Last updated: May 2026.
