What to Do Before Going to the Dentist?

Are there any practices you can do to make your next dental appointment go more smoothly? Here are some things to consider.

 

A commonly asked question we get as your local Annandale dentist is: “What should I do in preparation for an appointment?” We understand that many people can get nervous or apprehensive before a visit to the dentist, and we hope to quell these concerns. Our biggest suggestion for people preparing for a dentist’s visit is to be calm, relaxed and optimistic, as well as these further concerns:

Some people can get the impression that they should bring their best selves to the dentist – and this means they brush heavily and floss more precisely in the days leading up to their checkup. What they don’t realise though is that big changes to their routine can cause stress and damage to their gums, which ultimately makes their dental check-up more challenging. 

Our advice is to engage in good dental health practices such as regular brushing and flossing throughout the year, but if you are a person who has lapsed in their habits, don’t pick the week before a checkup to get back on track. Remember that your dentist isn’t there to judge you, they are just as concerned about your health and wellbeing as you are. So the smile you bring to your dentist should be an accurate representation of your day-to-day; this way, your dentist can better arrange their procedure to suit your needs. 

If know yourself to be nervous, it is also good to engage in a mindful, relaxing activity before going to the dentist. Excessive stress can also make your dentist’s job harder. Stimulants or depressants like alcohol or coffee should be avoided. If you or a family member are still anxious before an appointment, be sure to let your dentist know, as they will have a variety of strategies to make the process easier for you.

Some people stay away from food before a dentist’s visit, worried that small pieces might be lodged in gaps between teeth. What happens with this though is that the patient becomes tired and irritable due to hunger, and thus the actual dental procedure is more of a challenge for them. We recommend having a meal with substantial proteins to keep you feeling full for the duration of the visit and a few hours after, since sometimes procedures may require you to abstain from solid foods for a period of time afterwards. If you are concerned about detritus in your teeth after eating, a gentle brush before the visit is enough. 

If you are currently taking any prescription medication or have any underlying conditions which may affect your reaction to your dental procedure, it is important to let your dentist know beforehand so they can plan around your requirements. Good dentists welcome patient input as it helps them better calibrate their procedures and understand what each patient may be going through. If you have been to a different clinic, it is useful to let your upcoming dentist know of what has been done. Honesty is important as a patient, since clear and open communication will help your dentist provide the type of treatment which is best for your teeth and your lifestyle.

These are the top suggestions from your local Annandale dentist on how to best prepare for an upcoming dentist appointment. The important thing to remember is to come as you are, and to not make any drastic changes to your everyday habits. Remember that good dental health is a lifestyle endeavour, and that your dentist is glad to work alongside you to maintain the longevity of your teeth. 

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