Going to the dentist can be a daunting experience, but it doesn't have to be. With a few simple steps, you can make sure that your next dental appointment is as stress-free and comfortable as possible. Here are seven tips to help you prepare for your next dental appointment.
Confirm Your Appointment:
Make sure you have all the correct information and call the office within 24 hours of your appointment to confirm. This will ensure that you don't miss your appointment due to a change of address or other miscommunication.Know What You're Looking For:
Brushing and flossing your teeth before your appointment will help make them look their best.Additionally, using a mouthwash will freshen your breath and make you feel more confident during your visit.
Arrive Early:
Plan to arrive early for your appointment so that you have plenty of time to complete any paperwork and relax before the dentist arrives. This will also give you a chance to meet the staff if you're a new patient.Understand Your Insurance Coverage:
Make sure you understand what is covered by your insurance plan and what isn't. Many dentists offer discounts for patients who pay out of pocket, so it's important to know what your options are.Be Honest About Your Anxiety:
Don't try to hide your anxiety from the dentist. Instead, talk to them about your fears so that they can help you develop a plan to make sure you're as comfortable as possible during the procedure.Have a Relaxation Plan:
If you know that you're prone to anxiety related to dental visits, having a relaxation plan in place can help maximize your comfort.Consider bringing an iPod full of relaxing music, an anti-stress ball, or using guided imagery.
