What To Expect From A Dentist Appointment
Whether you are an experienced visitor or have an appointment with the dentist for you first time
, there are a number of things that you should be prepared for. Dentistry is always improving and becoming different and more high-tech.
Someone that has had dental work done repeatedly for a number of years may still be shocked on occasion when they visit the office and find a new instrument, tool, or technique being used. Each office, dentist, and hygienist operates differently, so you may even be surprised when you see a new practitioner.
However, there are ways to prepare yourself ahead of time so that you are not afraid or surprised when you show up for your appointment. The best thing to do leading up to your bi-yearly check up is to take the best care of your teeth possible.
Refrain from eating too many sugary foods and sodas. These cause harm and damage to your teeth, gums, and enamel.
They can also cause plaque and decay that lead to cavities. Everyone should floss at least once a day.
Flossing prevents bacteria from forming decay from plaque and also cleans any leftover food debris from the crevices within your mouth. It is an essential step to oral health, and any dental professional will urge you to do so.
If you wish, you can go a step further by purchasing and using a water pick. This is a tube or instrument that shoots a steady stream of water from a larger bowl.
The pressure of the water knocks bits of food from within the crevices of your teeth and blasts out any plaque. It is more powerful than traditional floss, and is especially helpful to those that have orthodontic devices within their mouths, because the water can maneuver slightly better than its counterpart.
Make sure that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after each meal to remove food build-up. It is best to use fluoride toothpaste, because it will strengthen your enamel and keep your oral hygiene at its best.
If you prefer, you can also use a paste with whitening agents. These will improve the color and clarity of your smile and keep you looking great.
When you schedule your appointment, ask the receptionist or, preferably, a hygienist what you may expect. Be sure that you understand the types of procedures that will be done, who will perform them, and how.
If you are just going in for a routine cleaning and check up, find out which cleaning method the dentist performs and research it. You can also ask if you will need dental x-rays.
Knowing these beforehand will help you to be prepared when you are sitting in the chair and come face to face with a new or unfamiliar type of instrument. Those that need more extensive work done should find out the procedure.
If you are nervous about having cavities filled, enquire of your doctor the type of anesthesia that will be used and how affective it is. Cavity filling has become very routine, and it is usually a quick and painless process.
Dental professionals will numb the region, drill it, and fill it, all without causing you any discomfort. Sometimes, the sounds of the instruments and drills are disturbing to some people.
If you feel that this may cause you some shock, bring ear plugs or ask if you can listen to a CD or mp3 player while the work is being done. Then, you will be able to sit in relaxation until it is finished.
You may also want to bring a personal item with you, like a book or magazine to keep you preoccupied. Long waits in both the reception room and the dentist's chair can make an appointment unbearable.
If you have some form of entertainment to keep your mind off of the procedure or cleaning, you will be able to feel comfortable and possibly, at home. If you would rather, you can also bring a friend or family member with you to calm you and keep you company.
Dental professionals are not frightening; they simply wish to give you the healthiest teeth and smile that they possibly can. Prepare yourself before your next trip to the office, and you will feel calm, safe, and ready to have great oral health.
by: Tommy Greene
Why Visiting A Dentist Could Save Your Life Pediatric Dentist Fort Collins - Dr. Greg Evans Choose A Great Dentist To Help With Your Dental Hygiene Needs Teeth Whitening- To Get Perfect Shining White Teeth What Is Cosmetic Dentistry Husband And Wife Dentists Who Save Teeth Pension Planning For Dentists Emergency Dentist Langhorne, Pa Maintaining A Clean Mouth - Proper Dental Care Dental Bridges - A Quick Way To Replace Missing Teeth Do Teeth Whitening Pens Really Work? A Few Statistics To Make You Think About Visiting Your Dentist Are Teeth Whitening Kits Better Than A Dentist Product?