Dentists are people too, and they understand that you might be anxious about your first visit. However, there are some things you can do to make the experience go as smoothly as possible. Dentist Chapel Hill NC offers general and cosmetic dentistry services. Here are a few mistakes to avoid when meeting with a dentist for the first time:
1. Not talking to the dentist about your fears:
Don’t suffer in silence. If you are anxious, tell your dentist to help you through. They may even be able to recommend a sedative so that any treatment is pain-free and relaxed for both of you.
Some dentists will also provide oxygen or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) during treatments which can help calm patients down before they get started on anything more major like dental implants or root canal treatment.
2. Not talking to the dentist about your medical history:
You need to make sure you tell your dentist anything that might affect them treating you. They will ask for details of any major illnesses, operations, or injuries, as well as information on current medications and if you are taking contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy. These may all cause problems during treatment, so they must know what these are at the outset. Dentist Chapel Hill will like to have a brief of your medical history before curing the problem.
3. Not talking to the dentist about your past dental history:
It is also a good idea to tell them if you have had any previous bad experiences with dentists in the past. This can help them take care of you and ensure they provide appropriate treatment such as sedation or aftercare following a certain procedure.
4. Not telling the dentist about your lifestyle:
It is important, to be honest with your dentists as they will use this information to help them assess any problems you might have. For example, a heavy smoker or drinker may suggest more intensive treatments such as implants rather than false teeth as these could take longer to settle in properly due to damaged gums.
Equally, if you are on holiday and want white teeth for that special occasion but do not normally look after them very well at home, then it’s best not to say so because there is no point paying out loads of money for something which won’t last long once back at work!
5. Not bringing along a list of questions:
If you have any queries or concerns, write them down before your appointment and take them with you. This will help ensure that you don’t forget anything important and means the dentist can address all of your queries at one time.
Some common questions patients ask include how long dental implants will last, whether they are suitable for people with crowns or bridges, and the cost of different treatments.
Remember that it is okay to ask as many questions as you like – dentists are used to answering them!
6. Not brushing and flossing properly:
It might seem like an obvious point, but if you do not brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque and bacteria will build-up, which can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day.