Whether you are changing dentists, have not been to the dentist in a long time or you are visiting a new dental practice, it is wise to come prepared to make sure your visit will run smoothly.
First of all, you should educate yourself about what to expect on the first dental visit and based on that, make your preparation plan based on your expectations.
Call Ahead.
Confirm your appointment and make sure you arrive 15 minutes early to make sure you are there in time to speak with them first if any issues shall arise or if you need to fill out any paperwork.
Confirm that your dental insurance plan is accepted by their office before you arrive to find it they don’t take your insurance.
Send your Records.
If you have a previous dental history, please send your dental records to the new office, this will help the dentist get an overall picture of your oral health and be able to address any issues that you might have or any issues they see from past history.
Arrive Early.
To avoid any confusion or fill out any paperwork arrive 20 minutes early, the dental office will also likely want your licence and your health insurance card.
Prepare Paperwork in Advance.
If you are able to download questionnaires or paperwork, please prepare it in advance of your visit. This is allow for more time for your appointment and let you think about your concerns. Please fill out all paperwork truthfully, it is for the benefit of your overall health. This includes listing out health issues, health concerns and medications.
Discuss Dental Problems.
Communicate with your dentist about any dental problems you have to help determine the direction of your dental treatment. Write down any dental problems you’ve had over the past six months, even if they’re happening at the current moment. This way you won’t forget anything, and it could keep you from having to make an emergency appointment if the symptoms flare up again in the future.
Include the following details as:
- Pain start and end date
- Where in your mouth you felt the pain
- The level of pain you experience
- When the pain happens
- Side effects such as bleeding or swelling
Answer Medical Questions Truthfully
Explain your oral hygiene routine, including how often you brush and floss. Your dentist may want to know about past dental problems and the last time you visited a dentist.
Be honest — disclosing this information is not meant to embarrass you, but to improve your dental health.
Face Dental Anxiety
Your first step in getting past dental anxiety is making the appointment. Once you’ve scheduled the visit, don’t postpone it — putting off your dental visit can cause dental problems to worsen. Don’t be afraid to tell your dentist about your fears. Dentists now use a variety of methods to successfully treat fearful patients.
Schedule Future Treatments
Most dental procedures last longer than regular dental exams, so be sure to schedule your appointment during a time that is convenient for you. Ask your dentist how long the appointment will last and what to expect after the procedure. Following your dentist’s post-operative or post-treatment guidelines will help you avoid complications and make a full recovery.
Make Payment Arrangements
You may be surprised by how easy it is to arrange payments. Our dentists want you to get the help you need, and may be able to provide various treatment options or make financial arrangements that meet your budget. In the meantime, discuss your payment options prior to your appointment.
– Many offices require payment at the time of service, so ask your dentist how they work with insurance or out-of-pocket payments before you show up for your appointment.
– For larger treatment plans, our offices offer financing on approved credit. Talk to one of our account managers about our internal payment plans. They should be able to help you fill out the appropriate paperwork and make sure you are approved prior to receiving treatment.
Post-Appointment Preparation
From the time you leave the dental office, you should already be preparing for your next visit. Either schedule your next appointment with the dental assistant before you walk out the door, or ask the office to send you a reminder so that you don’t forget to call.
Remember, just because you may have another six months before your next dental visit, that doesn’t mean you can take a vacation from your oral hygiene routine.
Continue your daily oral hygiene routine, and follow the advice your dentist or dental hygienist has given you regarding at-home dental care.
Your Dental Checklist
– Schedule your appointment with the office staff during a time that is convenient for you.
– Transfer your dental records from your former dentist, if necessary.
– Write down any dental problems or concerns to discuss with your dentist.
– Call the office the day before to confirm the appointment time.
– Bring your insurance card. If you are paying out of pocket, discuss your payment options prior to the dental visit.
– If you’re a new patient, be prepared to provide your dental health information, including your medical history.
– For current patients, it’s important to inform your dentist of changes in your health, especially if you’re pregnant.
– List any medications you’re taking, as they may affect treatment.
