Dental etiquette and regular dental checkups are essential. It helps prevent cavities and gum disease and detects potential oral health issues early on. While many understand the importance of these visits, some may experience anxiety or apprehension about the dental experience.
Ensure a smooth and informative interaction with your dental care professional. This guide on dental etiquette will equip you with the knowledge and confidence on how to prepare for a dentist visit.
So, what should and shouldn’t you do before stepping into the dental office?
Part 1: Scheduling Your Appointment
Scheduling your dental appointment is the first step towards a positive and productive visit.
Familiarise Yourself with Dental Clinic Policies
It is clinic and dental etiquette to understand the clinic’s operative procedures before scheduling your appointment. This includes:
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- Appointment Scheduling. For clinic and dental etiquette, don’t assume the clinic’s policies are the same as other dental practices. Do familiarise yourself with the clinic’s preferred method for scheduling appointments (online booking, phone calls) and their availability.
- Cancellation Policy. Be aware of the clinic’s policy regarding appointment cancellations or rescheduling to avoid any potential fees or troubles.
- Insurance Coverage. If you have dental insurance, understand your coverage and associated costs before your appointment. Contact your health insurance provider or the clinic’s reception to clarify any questions regarding your coverage.
We recommend contacting the reception directly for the most up-to-date information on these policies.
New Patient vs. Returning Patient
The scheduling process may vary slightly depending on whether you are a new or returning patient.
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- The initial appointment for new patients often involves a more comprehensive process. Do prepare your detailed medical and dental history. This includes existing medical conditions, current medications, and previous dental treatments. This information helps your dentist understand your overall health and provide the best care.
- For established patients, the scheduling process is typically more streamlined. The clinic may have your records on file, allowing quicker appointment booking. However, for dental etiquette, don’t assume the clinic already has the most up-to-date information on your medical history. Inform the clinic about recent health changes or new medications.
Carefully consider these factors to select an appointment time that optimally fits your schedule and preferences.
Part 2: Preparing for Your Appointment
After you schedule and confirm your appointment, prepare for a smooth and successful experience. Proper preparation counts as dental etiquette, alleviating anxiety and ensuring your appointment is efficient and productive.
Gather Necessary Information
To make your appointment run smoothly, gather the following information and documents beforehand:
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- Dental insurance information
- List of current medications
- Referral forms if another healthcare provider referred you to the clinic.
It will help things go smoothly at the check-in and ensure your dentist has all the information they need to treat you well.
Update Your Medical History
Keep your dentist informed about any changes in your overall health. This includes any new medical conditions, recent surgeries, or medication changes. Sharing this information helps your dentist keep you safe during dental procedures, noting your health might impact your treatment.
Make a List of Questions and Concerns
Take your appointment as a time to discuss your dental concerns. Some questions you might want to ask include:
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- What are the potential risks and benefits of the recommended treatment?
- Are there any alternative treatment options available?
- What are the pros and cons of each option?
- How long will the treatment take?
- What are the expected costs associated with the treatment?
- Are there any dietary changes I should make to improve my oral health?
- What are the pain management options available?
- What are the recovery expectations after the procedure?
Writing your questions helps you and your dentist work together to keep your teeth healthy.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
A well-known dental etiquette is to brush your teeth and floss before your dentist appointment. This helps your dentist accurately assess your dental health, unless they instruct you otherwise.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing for optimal comfort during your dental visit. This will facilitate optimal access for the dentist and minimise the potential for any unforeseen circumstances.
Part 3: What to Expect During Your Appointment
This is where you ask the questions you have on your list. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns you may have during your appointment.
Arrival and Check-In. Firstly, a basic clinic and dental etiquette is to arrive at the clinic on time. The check-in process may involve filling out necessary forms and presenting insurance information. If applicable, please show your insurance card to the receptionist.
The Dental Examination. You will begin your dental examination after checking in, if there is no line, or immediately when it’s your turn.
It typically starts with a detailed visual inspection of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. The dentist might take X-rays to evaluate the health of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. Then, the dental hygienist will conduct a dental cleaning or prophylaxis to remove plaque and tartar. There may also be a quick examination of your oral tissues to check for signs of oral cancer.
Treatment Discussion. Following the examination, your dentist will discuss their findings and any recommended treatments or preventative measures. They will work with you to create a personalised treatment plan addressing your needs and concerns.
Scheduling Follow-Up Appointments. Your dentist may recommend follow-up appointments for cleanings, checkups, or specific treatments. You can typically schedule these appointments directly with the receptionist at the end of your visit. As dental etiquette, the clinic will work with you to find a convenient time that fits your schedule, so don’t neglect it.
Part 4: Maintaining Good Oral Health Between Visits
Regular checkups and cleanings are important, but daily home care is just as crucial for maintaining good oral health.
In addition to brushing and flossing, following a dentist-recommended diet is dental etiquette to help strengthen teeth and prevent cavities.
If you’re unsure when to get a dental checkup, refer to our article “Dental Checkup: 5 Clear Signs of Dental Distress.”
How to Prepare for a Dentist Visit
Good dental etiquette helps you and your dentist work together for better oral health.
In summary, preparing for your dental appointment involves a few key steps:
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- Scheduling: Familiarise yourself with the clinic’s policies, consider your schedule, and understand the process for new vs. returning patients.
- Preparation: Gather necessary information, update your medical history, and prepare a list of questions for your dentist.
- Before the Appointment: Practice good oral hygiene and wear comfortable clothing.
- During the Appointment: Understand the check-in process, the dental examination, and the treatment discussion.
- Post-Appointment: Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended and maintain consistent oral hygiene practices at home.
At Inner West Dental, you will receive high-quality dental etiquette with state-of-the-art equipment, alongside a commitment to excellent patient care. Book an appointment below.
