You’ve probably heard that going to the dentist can be one of the most frightening experiences you can have, and you’re probably wondering how in the world you’re going to get through your first visit without having an anxiety attack. It’s okay, because there are plenty of ways to prepare yourself before your first dental appointment so that you can relax, breathe deeply, and walk in with confidence — here are 10 tips on how to prepare for your first visit to the dentist.
1) Go during off hours
While most people don’t mind waiting, dentists prefer it when you come during off hours. This saves you from having to wait and allows them to schedule all their patients in a timely manner. So, if you can swing it, arrive early on Saturday or Monday morning. If that doesn’t work, try going after 6pm or during lunchtime. In addition to being easier on your nerves and wallet, it will also allow you to be seen faster. Best of all? It won’t cost anything extra!
2) Come prepared with questions
Questions are a great way to convey that you’re serious about your dental health and interested in understanding what your dentist is saying. The more information you have, the more likely you are to take good care of your teeth. The worst thing that can happen when you visit your dentist is having questions go unanswered, which could lead to poor oral hygiene. To ensure that doesn’t happen, come prepared with questions. Here are 10 questions every new patient should ask their dentist
3) Choose a location near your home or work
Many people worry about being nervous when they visit a dentist who’s not near their home or work. To make sure you don’t have any surprises, pick a location that is easy for you to get to. Find dentists who are open on weekends and evenings, too. Getting an appointment on your schedule is one less thing you have to worry about when it comes time for your appointment. Just be sure that if you do need emergency dental care, there is someplace nearby available and open at all hours of day or night.
4) Ensure proper insurance coverage
Unfortunately, dental insurance isn’t always as reliable as it seems. Dental emergencies don’t adhere to our schedules and can happen at any time of day or night. That’s why it’s important to ensure that your policy is up-to-date before you visit a dentist near you. It might also be a good idea to visit a walk-in dentist if necessary. If you’re looking for someone new in your area, ask around! Word of mouth is a powerful tool when it comes to medical professionals and getting high quality care from someone who’s trusted by others can help reduce some stress during a potentially stressful event.
5) Bring a portable charger if you must wait
If you are planning a dentist visit, make sure that you have a portable charger with you. This can prevent your phone from dying and you don’t want to miss important calls or messages. Not only that, it can be difficult to call for help in an emergency if there is no signal. Instead of missing out on important information like directions or advice, keep yourself prepared so you can stay safe at all times. This may also come in handy if they need to inform anyone of anything during your visit. So, next time you visit a dentist office open on saturday or dentist open on sunday , make sure you bring along your portable charger!
6) Choose a dentist who speaks your language
Don’t get on an elevator if you’re scared of heights and don’t go to a walk in dentist who doesn’t speak your language. I was always afraid of going to my dentist because I didn’t feel as though he spoke my language (I have some dental phobia). When it came time for my first visit, I chose one who spoke Spanish (in addition to English) and explained everything she was doing before she did it. For example, when putting in a filling she would tell me what each tool was, how long it would take, what they were made out of and why they were needed.
7) Get x-rays and cleanings before big procedures
If you have a new dentist, make sure to schedule appointments with your dentist near me open saturday early in your relationship so you can get x-rays and cleanings before he or she pulls out any big tools. This will allow them to see how your teeth align and if there are any small cavities that need fixing. You’ll also be able to get a feel for their personality; if it seems like a good fit, you’ll already know what days and times work best for you when it comes time for more complex procedures.
8) Request written treatment plans so you know what comes next
If you’re like most people, your teeth have seen more than their fair share of McDonald’s French fries and ice cream. But what happens when you need to get a filling or schedule a checkup? It can be easy to feel daunted by your first visit to a dentist near you, but taking some time before you set foot in that office can put your mind at ease. Visiting any new dentist can be overwhelming (after all, it’s not every day that someone holds sharp objects near your mouth), so try these tips before your appointment So, next time you visit dentist open on sunday , make sure you bring along your portable charger!
9) Go on their website if you have time before your appointment
If you don’t have an emergency dental issue, schedule your appointment in advance. This way, you’ll know what kind of dentistry practice you’re walking into and how they handle scheduling (is it possible to get same-day appointments? Are walk-ins allowed?). Knowing these things will make you feel more at ease if something unexpected arises during your appointment. (By contrast, having a last-minute emergency situation often means longer wait times and far less time for questions.) If you find yourself in urgent need of help with tooth pain or a specific dental problem, by all means call around and see if there are any last-minute openings at nearby offices; it never hurts to ask.
10) Be honest about your fears, concerns, and goals
Going to a dentist can be stressful. And if you have fears about dentists, it may be even more difficult. That’s okay! Be honest with your dentist about your fears and concerns; there are ways that dentists can help alleviate them. Ask questions about what happens in each step of treatment, so you know exactly what is happening throughout your visit and exactly how much it will cost. Check out our list of 10 things you should know before heading into your first dental appointment; it’ll help you feel prepared and comfortable, so you can relax and focus on what’s important: healthy teeth!
