5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Family Dentist Appointment

A family dentist performs routine examinations, cleanings, and restorative procedures as part of a comprehensive oral care regimen contributing to healthy teeth, gums, and general wellbeing. However, patients who plan and communicate openly have the most productive appointments.

Ways to plan for a family dentist appointment

Although professional dental care is essential for healthy teeth and gums, patients must actively partner with a dentist to maintain good oral health. These five tips and strategies can help patients get the most out of every visit to a family dentist.

1. Bring a list of concerns and questions

Before arriving at an appointment, patients should prepare a list of oral health concerns to discuss with the dentist or hygienist. For example, patients should inform the dentist about bleeding gums while brushing and flossing, point out areas of pain or discomfort, or inquire about the efficacy of fluoride treatments. In addition, routine visits are the perfect time to discuss preventative and restorative treatment strategies and options.

2. Be honest about anxiety

Visiting a dentist can cause anxiety for adults and young children alike. Informing the office staff members about anxious feelings before arriving at an appointment can help them prepare ways to make a visit more relaxing, thereby ensuring patients receive the maximum treatment benefit. Also, patients should rest, eat healthy meals, and engage in enjoyable activities before a dental appointment to remain calm and communicate better with the dental staff.

3. Ask to review home maintenance techniques

Home care is as essential as professional dental cleanings for achieving good oral hygiene. A dental appointment is a perfect opportunity for the whole family to review brushing and flossing techniques that prevent plaque build-up between dental cleanings. A family dentist understands that different family members have unique oral care requirements and can customize each home care regimen accordingly. Also, a dental appointment is a perfect time to ask for product recommendations or samples to try at home.

4. Bring an updated list of prescriptions and medical conditions

A healthy mouth is part of general wellbeing, and some medical conditions can negatively impact oral health. For example, dry mouth is a common side effect of certain drugs and can lead to tooth decay or gum disease. Also, a medical condition may contradict a proposed treatment strategy or require specific accommodations. Dentists who are aware of patients' health challenges can tailor treatments accordingly. For instance, a dentist may recommend an oral fluoride rinse or non-abrasive toothpaste to counter oral sensitivity due to medication side effects or prescribe after-treatment antibiotics and pain relievers with consideration for drug allergies.

5. Confirm payment details

Family members in various age groups may have different dental insurance policies. Confirming insurance coverage or arranging a payment plan with the dentist before treatment can prevent billing miscommunications that could affect the scheduled treatment course and eliminate unnecessary anxiety. 

Conclusion

A family dentist can be a valuable member of anyone's health care team. Preparing for each dental appointment is essential for achieving every family member's oral and general health goals.

Request an appointment here: https://jacksonheightdental.com or call 82nd St. Dental at (718) 709-3883 for an appointment in our Jackson Heights office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Jackson Heights, NY.