1. Location

This is an easy but important factor. Depending on where your future general dentist is, your life will either be easier or harder.

When picking a dentist, location is important. For example, if you usually go to the dentist from work, you don’t want to choose a spot where you’re likely to get stuck in traffic going to and from.

If your kids will also be going to this dentist, it’s easy to choose a location close to you. So, when you or a family member has a meeting, you won’t have to worry about getting there.

2. Hours

Another thing to think about is when the office is open. Some dentists can take visits on Saturdays or after 5 p.m. This might be important to you if you can’t make it to a meeting during normal office hours.

Although we do not have regular office hours Saturday and Sunday, we do accept Emergency Dental Care.

3. Cost and Insurance

Your budget is, of course, one of the most important things to think about when picking a dentist. If you have dental insurance, check to see if the doctor you want to see will take it.

If you don’t have insurance, you should ask what kind of payment plans they have. You should also look for a dentist who can give you prices and costs up front so you know how much you’ll have to pay.

If your future dentist takes your insurance, you should also ask about any copays and know how your dental insurance plan covers different services.

4. How They Handle Dental Anxiety

About 9 to 20% of Americans have anxiety or fear about going to the dentist. Because they are afraid of dentists, they don’t go to the doctor.

Some people with oral anxiety might not go to the dentist because they had a painful experience at the dentist in the past. Some people may be scared of the dentist because of what they’ve seen or heard in the media or from other people about going to the dentist.

If going to the dentist makes you or a family member feel uneasy or nervous, you should find a dentist who will understand and work with your anxiety.

Many dentists know that some people get nervous about going to the dentist and can work with patients to help them feel better. You can talk to your dentist about your worry and ask how they can help you.

For example, you and your dentist can come up with a hand signal that you can use if you need to stop treatment or take a break.

5. What they have to offer

Check out the services a dentist offers when you’re looking for one. Do they provide emergency service when the office is closed?

If you have kids, do they also offer services for kids’ teeth? It’s better if everyone in the family can go to the same dentist instead of each person going to a different one.

6. How well you get along with them

How comfortable you are with your dentist and their office is another thing to think about. Is the staff polite and helpful when you call to make an appointment?

Do you feel clean and comfy when you go to the dentist? Are you met by someone on staff?

Do you feel like your doctor hears you and answers your questions when you talk to him or her?

We would love to visit our state of the art office in Virginia Beach and experience the difference of a clean office focused on our patients comfort.

Patient Testimonials

Have a great experience? Consider writing a short testimonial.

Write A Facebook Review | Write A Google Review

Read testimonials from our patients then come visit us at our Virginia Beach dental office

“Last week I experienced the worst dental pain or any pain, I have ever had and after suffering most of the day at work I finally gave in and began trying to find an “emergency dentist”. Since I had only recently acquired dental insurance I had not been in quite awhile and therefore did not have a regular dentist. After 45 minutes, 4 phone calls and no success, I found myself speaking to [the staff of Dentistry of Virginia Beach], who showed 100 times the compassion and understanding as anyone I’d spoken to yet.

Even though I was not an established patient AND it was nearly 4 pm, she said she could hear the pain in my voice and told me to come right in. I have always had terrible anxiety at the dentist but I was put at ease the moment I arrived. Dr. Pelaez immediately numbed the source of my pain and then explained the cause of my extreme pain which was a “hot tooth” or infected nerve/root. I was so impressed and grateful that Dr. Pelaez was willing to perform a temporary fix that would get me out of pain but give me time to think over my options and make a decision with a clear (pain-free) mind. He and his assistant all stayed nearly an hour after closing to help me, not even an established patient, for which I am and will always be eternally grateful.

The next morning, Dr. Pelaez himself took the time to call me to follow up and make sure that I was no longer in pain and that I knew I could call the office at any time if I had questions or concerns. I wish my words could better convey the true empathy, kindness, and compassion I received from Dr. Pelaez and his staff on that terrible day.

They now have a patient for life…whether they want me or not!” – Stephanie F, Virginia Beach

“Dr . Pelaez’s staff is friendly, courteous, and professional (not phony like a lot of providers in the area). Dr. Pelaez commitment to his craft is evident in his design of this modern, state of the art facility. He genuinely cares about his clients and I firmly believe he is a standout amongst his peers in the Hampton Roads Community! I drive the extra mile to his office… Trust me it is worth it. If you’re looking for a new dentist, or tired of your old one, don’t cheat yourself, and give Dentistry of Virginia Beach a serious consideration.” – Mark S, Norfolk

“Late last year, my dentist stopped taking my dental insurance. I moved over to a new firm opening near my house. Ugh! My first visit, they took me back 45 minutes after my appt. They were disorganized, exam areas were lacking proper finishes and all of a sudden I needed all of this dental work. Begrudgingly, I made an appt to get the work done. They called and rescheduled. They rescheduled it again. The third time that they called to reschedule the appt, I canceled it. They called a fourth time. I went from this frustrating experience to a blessing.

This dentist has his act together. His staff is amazingly calming and personable. I cannot stress how accommodating and friendly they are. The beauty of his decor and cleanliness of the office is top notch. Their equipment is modern and allowed for me to observe on screen photos and understand explanations. Oh and all that needed work that suddenly appeared in my mouth at the other office, oddly, it was not in my mouth during this comprehensive exam. I will be moving my entire family over to this office! I will also be sharing my experience with my friends and on Facebook! I cannot say enough kind things!” – Michelle S., Virginia Beach

“My husband set me up with these guys after he went and had a great experience. The office is brand new and super-modern, and everyone I encountered was great. I needed a little flexibility in my appointment scheduling, and Leslie at the front desk really helped me out. Uma, my hygienist, was very professional, friendly, and gentle on my gums! She also explained everything she was doing, which I really appreciated (if you don’t want running commentary, there’s an overhead TV you can watch).

They took the usual x-rays of my teeth, but Uma also measured my gums so as to have a baseline…that way they can see if my gums start receding or getting any bacteria pockets (scientific term). I’ve never had that done before, but I think it’s a really good idea.

Dr. Pelaez was also professional and friendly and answered all my questions thoroughly.

Overall, it’s the best experience I’ve had with a dentist’s office in years. I have finally found a dentist I want to stick with!” – Kennedy S., Virginia Beach

“Had a wisdom tooth pulled very short notice, left a message the night before and got a call back first thing in the morning, was in the chair by 11 am. The staff that I have met are so patient and kind which is not something too common in 2015. I had to bring my newborn preemie with me which was challenging and everyone jumped in to help until someone was able to come watch her. They are so accommodating! As far as the procedure it was the easiest thing I’ve ever done, Jorge clearly knows what he’s doing and I will never go to another dentist while we are here!” –  Sarah B., Virginia Beach

“My family and I have nothing but praise for the care we receive from Dr. Pelaez and staff at Dentistry of Virginia Beach. Even the staff are very professional they nevertheless treat you with kindness and go out of their way to make sure your visit is pleasant. From the moment you enter the beautiful facility to the moment you exit you know you are being given the best care. We are so grateful for Dr. Pelaez and his staff and highly recommend them.” – Larry E. Virginia Beach