A visit to the dentist is nothing should of having a full scale anxiety attack. Starting from the instruments which look like they are lifted from some horror movie to the secrets the dentist will uncover hidden between your teeth, it is scary. Yet, keeping your appointment is essential as the teeth wear and tears away silently and unless the damage is irreparably done, you will not know that something is wrong with your mouth.
Visiting the Dentist
So it is your yearly appointment, and you are worried about it. You are basically wondering if all will be fine and if you should have some food or not. The answer is yes, while the food will calm you down, it will also help the dentist know of any immediate cavity threats. Apart from that, these are a few tips you can check off your list:
- First and the best tip you could possibly have before visiting your dentist is to brush your teeth. Dentists appreciate this and make it easier for them to deal with a clean, hygienic mouth. But do not go out of the way. Harsh brushing, too much use of alcohol-based mouthwash prior to the appointment may be noticeable to your doctor, and your teeth might become less prepared for the check-up rather than more. Stick to your regular oral care routine, if you have one, or just a simple good brushing session is enough before you meet your dentist.
- While visiting a new dentist or having your first dental appointment, it is better you recall and remember your family’s dental history. This might give a better perspective to your doctor to judge your case better and anticipate any upcoming problems. Feel comfortable to disclose any problems without thinking about the remedies. It is better to solve and know the problem beforehand and treat them in the beginning before they become permanent problems. Make a list of queries you have that have been bothering you. Do not be embarrassed to share your food habits or anything you think might be embarrassing.
- Some dental problems are invisible, some are painless. You decide not to take that dentist’s appointment. Do not do that. Dental problems become long-term and permanent quicker than you know. On the other hand, for example, you keep having toothaches often but see no unusualness inside your mouth. It might be that you have an impacted tooth or some other serious problem growing but just because it is not visible outside you should not think about it. It is recommended to see your dentist immediately without delay.
- Most people are anxious to visit the dentist. It is natural as teeth and gums can be sensitive and can also cause a lot of pain. Most people are anxious to see all the complicated tools inside the dentist’s chamber and therefore do not go back again. Do not worry. It is your doctor’s responsibility to make you calm, answer your problems that are making you anxious, and make you comfortable. If you are not comfortable with your current dentist (e.g. he is not gentle with you) you are allowed to see someone better.
Being a little anxious about the pain and discomfort is normal, you may take a painkiller. But it is better if you ask your doctor beforehand. Do not lie to your dentist because it is your health at stake. Do not force yourself to go to the appointment if you are ill. Do not try whitening before the appointment. There is no need to as the process might make your mouth more sensitive. Do not skip X-ray as some serious problem might go undetected. These are some fundamental tips before you visit the dentist. All dental problems have a solution. Regular dental check-ups are good in the long run.