5 Things You Need To Do Before a Dental Appointment

If you are planning a dental appointment, there are several ways to prepare. Whether your visit is for routine cleaning, teeth whitening, or a dental procedure, following the steps outlined below will help you get the most out of your visit. Preparing for your dental appointment also helps your dentist and dental staff deliver safe, effective treatment that optimizes oral health.

The professional team at West Bell Dental Care in Surprise, Arizona, offers a full range of oral health services, including general, preventive, restoration, and cosmetic dentistry. The West Bell Dental Care team views dental health as a partnership between the patient and professional staff. Open communication, attention to patient comfort, and state-of-the-art technology are essential elements of a successful dental session. West Bell Dental Care is included in Yelp’s top 10 best dentists in Surprise.

Call the dentist’s office before your visit to confirm the appointment. Verify the time and date. Ask how early you should arrive before the scheduled time. If it is the first visit, you may have to fill out new patient forms or complete an interview with a staff member before treatment.

Verify the address. If you are not sure of the location, ask for directions to make sure you will arrive on time.

Before any visit, brush and floss your teeth. Having a clean mouth for the professionals performing the procedures is a courtesy. It also gives the dental hygienist or other dental professionals an idea about how effective your cleaning routine is. They may notice areas you miss or your cleaning methods damage your teeth.

Some procedures require advance preparation. If you are having surgery, you may be asked to fast for a few hours before you arrive. For follow-up visits, you may be required to take medications before a procedure. For the best outcome, make sure you follow instructions.

Your dentist may ask for a complete medical history like any other doctor’s visit. If this is your first dental appointment at a clinic, transfer previous dental records to the new clinic or bring them with you.

You may be asked to fill out a comprehensive medical questionnaire. Be prepared to inform your dentist about the following:

• List all medications you take, including prescription drugs, herbal supplements, vitamins, and over-the-counter medicines.
• Any drug allergies.
• Any past or current medical conditions, including diabetes, heart problems, or high blood pressure.
• Describe previous dental work, such as root canals, crowns, or dentures.
• Any current dental problems, such as sensitivity to hot and cold, pain, infections, or grinding teeth at night.
• Emergency contact information. Who is authorized to make decisions in a medical emergency?
• Current health insurance policies, including Medicare, dental, or other health care coverage.
• Names and contact information of other health care providers, including previous dentists and primary care physicians.

Being on time is a courtesy to your dentist, office staff, and other patients. You may be asked to arrive fifteen minutes before your appointment to fill out forms or talk to intake staff about any problems you may have. Arriving late throws off scheduling and may delay your appointment. If you know you may be delayed or are running late on the day of your appointment, call the office and inform the staff. Advanced notice may allow them to adjust schedules for minor inconvenience to your dentist and other patients.

Ask about the clinic’s late and no-show policies. Some clinics charge a fee for late cancellations or no-shows. If you cannot keep your appointment, inform the clinic staff as soon as possible. Be sure to reschedule if you miss your appointment.

Many people find dental visits traumatic. The West Bell Dental Care staff makes every effort to keep patients comfortable and relaxed. If you are afraid or anxious about your appointment, inform the staff when you make it and when you arrive. The clinic offers several sedation options to put patients at ease. In addition, the clinic offers warm blankets, refreshments, and a selection of movies and audio shows to keep you comfortable during your treatment sessions.

Do not be afraid to ask questions or voice concerns. If you do not understand what the treatment is for or why it is being done, you have a right to know. The West Bell Dental Care dentists want patients to be actively involved in maintaining their oral health. The staff takes time to explain treatments, answer questions, and ensure you are comfortable before, during, and after treatment.

After your session, ask about follow-up visits, medication, and what you should do at home. As part of treatment, you may be asked to put heat or ice on a treatment area or use topical or prescription medicines. The professional staff at West Bell Dental Care will answer all your questions and make sure you understand what you should do at home. Be sure to schedule your next visit before you leave.

If you have questions once you return home, West Bell Dental Care opens at 7 a.m. during the workweek and 8 a.m. on Saturdays. Please feel free to call to clarify any questions or concerns. Attention to patient comfort is a major factor in why West Bell Dental Care is considered one of the best dentists in Surprise, AZ.