To keep your smile in excellent shape, you should attend regular cleanings and checkups every six months. However, if you haven’t been for a while, you’ve moved to a new area, or you have switched dentists for one reason or another, it may be difficult to know how you should prepare for your visit. We’re here to help! Here are some tips that you may want to consider so you can be prepared for your upcoming dental checkup.
Choose a Trustworthy Dentist
When it comes to choosing a dentist, it isn’t always the best idea to book an appointment with the first person that pops up online. Instead, do your research. Pick a dentist who has good communication skills and can help you manage dental anxiety if needed. These are necessary qualities that will help you keep up a good relationship with your dental provider. Before booking your appointment, read some online reviews as well. This way, you can hear about other people’s experiences with the dentist in question.
Provide Your Dental Records
If you’re seeing someone new, it is very helpful for them if you provide your dental records. This may mean that you have to contact your previous dental provider to get this information from them. If your new dentist doesn’t know anything about your history, it will be more difficult for them to get started.
Bring Your Insurance Information
Before your appointment, you should check to see if the dentist accepts your insurance plan. You don’t want to be surprised with a large bill that you need to pay out of pocket. Bring your dental insurance information with you to your appointment so you can provide the practice with the information that they need to maximize your benefits.
Write Down Your Medications
Your dentist will need to know which types of medications you are currently taking. Before you head to the office, write down the names of each one, their dosage, and how often you take them. Some medicines can increase your risk for oral health issues, like dry mouth and gum disease. By knowing which medications you are taking, your dentist will know exactly what to look out for.
Confirm Your Appointment
You don’t want to show up too early or late for your appointment. The dental office will likely call to confirm the appointment. If they don’t, it’s a good idea to give them a call. This way, you can be certain about your appointment time and be given any necessary instructions.
Reschedule If You’re Sick
While it can be frustrating to reschedule appointments, your dental team would prefer that you do so if you become sick. This way, you won’t be putting your dental team at risk of becoming ill, and your body will be able to recover before your treatment.
By sticking to the tips listed above, you can get back on track with your dental visits and keep up a beautiful, healthy smile!
About the Author
Dr. Carole Emanuel is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than 25 years! She earned her dental doctorate from the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has extensively studied a variety of specialties through 500+ hours of continuing education. This includes dental implant placement, esthetic dentistry, Invisalign, BOTOX, oral surgery, and much more! Dr. Emanuel is proud to hold a Fellowship in both the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the Academy of General Dentistry. To learn more about regular dental checkups or to schedule your next visit at her office in Lakewood, visit her website or call (303) 986-0090.