With dental checkups and cleanings being a biannual activity, you may naturally want to streamline your experience. If your next visit is right around the corner, then there is no time like the present to make that happen! Here are five helpful tips on how to make your next dental appointment as smooth and seamless as possible.
Tip #1: Fill Out Paperwork Beforehand
Whether you haven’t been to the dentist in several months or multiple years, there is a good chance you’ll need to fill out some paperwork beforehand. Sometimes, this is to update your insurance information and other times it’s to confirm that you aren’t experiencing any flu-like symptoms. Fortunately, these forms can be completed and submitted digitally, making your time at your dentist’s office even shorter.
Tip #2: Brush and Floss Beforehand
If you’re coming straight from the office, then you may not be able to brush and floss your teeth beforehand. That’s okay – your dental hygienist will take the time to thoroughly remove food particles, plaque, and debris during your cleaning. However, if you can complete your oral hygiene regimen beforehand, you should. This will help the cleaning portion of your visit go much quicker.
Tip #3: Arrive a Few Minutes Early
Naturally, you don’t want to show up late for your appointment. Not only does this increase your chances of needing to reschedule your appointment, but it also can put you in a stressed, negative headspace. So, do your best to arrive 5-10 minutes beforehand. If you’re going to be late or need to postpone your visit, give your dental team as much warning as possible.
Tip #4: Be Truthful About Your Dental Habits
Are you worried about getting a lecture from your dentist? Then you may feel inclined to tell a white lie or two during your time in the treatment chair. Don’t! Instead, be honest about what your at-home oral hygiene regimen is like. Not only will this help your dentist know which oral health concerns they should look out for, but it will also give them an opportunity to provide specific tips to help!
Tip #5: Ask Questions
In short, it’s important to take an active role in your oral health! Instead of getting in and out of the treatment chair as soon as possible, take some time to ask questions. How do my fillings/dental crowns look? Are my gums healthy? Is there anything I can do at home to improve my oral health? Questions like these can open a dialogue between you and your dentist.
Your biannual checkups play an essential role in your oral and overall health, which is why you should visit your dentist every six months. With the above tips, you can make your appointment as smooth as possible while keeping your smile in tip-top shape!
About the Practice
From children to seniors, our team at Advanced Dental Concepts is proud to help patients in and around Chesterton achieve and maintain healthy smiles. Plus, our top-rated dentists are highly trained, offer several affordable payment options, and have convenient hours throughout the week. So, if it’s been more than six months since your last checkup or you have a question about your oral health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment via our website or by phone at (219) 926-7595.