Regular dental cleanings and checkups are the most recommended ways of keeping your oral health in check. However, every dental appointment needs effective preparation in order to get the most out of each session. Whether it’s your very first appointment ever or a repeat one, getting ready for each session will make things easier for you and the dentist. Here are a few tips on how to effectively prepare for a successful dental appointment the next time you’re scheduled for one.
Confirm Your Appointment Dates
While your dentist might have already given the dates and time for your next appointment, it’s good to confirm a day before if the appointment is still on. A dentist’s schedule can change at the last minute, and they might not be able to communicate the changes effectively on time, so confirming helps put everything in check before your appointment day.
Ask them to confirm the time of arrival and if you need to come in a few minutes earlier for pre-checkup preparations. If you’re visiting for the first time, you may need to fill out a new patient form or be interviewed with a staff member before your dentist’s appointment.
Write and Ask Your Questions and Concerns
Many dental visits are opportunities for patients to ask the most burning questions on dental health care that they’ve been harboring for a long time. It’s important that you prepare your top questions early and any concerns you may have regarding the procedure you’ve been booked for by your dentist. Concerns and questions may differ depending on the dental service you need.
If you’re booked for cosmetic dentistry, your questions may revolve around the best procedure for optimal outcomes and how to maintain the beautiful smile after the procedure. Generally, you can ask questions such as:
- What are the pros and cons of specific treatment procedures?
- How can I maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine?
- How do I handle sensitive teeth?
- Do you accept dental insurance and financing?
Prepare and Carry Previous Dental and Medical Records
If you’re visiting a new dentist for various reasons, it’s important to share your dental health journey with them so they can effectively solve your dental problems. Ask your previous dentist to write and transfer your dental and medical records to the new dentist or share them with you so you can carry them to your appointment.
The medical and dental records should contain information relevant to your dental health that may help with securing relevant professional dental care at the new clinic. In the medical records, you may be required to cover information about:
- Any existing dental problems, such as infection, sensitivity to cold or hot foods, and gum issues.
- Any allergies to drugs.
- The current health insurance policies you’re using, such as dental or medicare insurance coverages.
- Any current or past medical conditions, including heart problems, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
- The emergency contact information with the names and phone numbers of people to be contacted in case of medical emergencies.
Every visit to the dentist is a chance to get your teeth in perfect shape and boost your oral health. By following these preparation tips, you can enjoy smoother dental visits for optimal oral health.