Most of us understand the importance of visiting the dentist at least twice a year to maintain a healthy smile. By scheduling routine checkups and cleanings, you’ll be able to keep your teeth in pristine condition while also avoiding oral issues like gum disease and cavities. While your dentist in Dyer can perform the heavy lifting for preserving your pearly whites, there are ways that you can help make their job easier in the long run. Read on to learn five things you can do to make your next appointment easier!
Tip #1: Clean Your Smile Before Arriving
You might consider thoroughly cleaning your teeth before arriving at your dentist’s office. This will allow them to polish them much quicker as well as detect any developing issues more efficiently, such as plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. You may also want to avoid eating a meal immediately before your appointment so that you don’t coat your teeth in food particles.
Tip #2: Arrive at the Office on Time
Your dentist will always appreciate you coming to your scheduled visit on time. Since they have other patients that need treatment, it’s important to show up at your appointed schedule to avoid having to adjust plans. By arriving several minutes before your dental checkup, you may be able to be seen earlier than expected. You’re also less likely to feel anxious about your visit if you have plenty of time to relax.
Tip #3: Inform Your Dental Team of Your Anxiety
If you’re feeling nervous or stressed about your checkup, be sure to tell your dental team about it. They’ll do everything they can to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible during your appointment. They may be able to provide you with sedation therapy to help you relax, such as nitrous oxide.
Tip #4: Maintain Open & Clear Communication
You’ll want to make sure your dentist is informed about any oral health concerns you might have. This will make it much easier for them to identify the cause of any discomfort or issues in your mouth. By providing as much information as you can, they’ll be more likely to address any underlying conditions with the best treatment for your specific dental needs.
Tip #5: Plan Your Budget & Financing Options
Figuring out how you’ll afford dental treatment can be a stressful situation. To avoid any complications, be sure to discuss the cost of treatment and your insurance policy before your appointment. Your dentist may also offer alternative financing options to help minimize your out-of-pocket expenses.
If you have an upcoming dental checkup, then you might consider these few tips to prepare yourself. By keeping these steps in mind, you should be able to make your next appointment a simple and stress-free experience!
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Koveck received his dental doctorate from the Indiana University School of Dentistry in Indianapolis. He’s also a member of several groups like the Chicago Dental Society and the Indiana Dental Association, and he regularly seeks continuing education to expand his techniques. He provides a wide range of advanced treatments, including dental checkups/cleanings, periodontal therapy, and sedation dentistry. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 219-322-3418.