Routine dental exams are an essential part of your oral health. Routine exams are preventative as they ensure that your dentist finds any potential oral health issues early on. Most patients get regular checkups every six months. However, those with a history of tooth decay or gum disease need to visit more often. Your dentist can let you know when and how often you should get regular checkups. Below, you will find the top X ways to prepare for a dental exam.

Top 6 Ways to Prepare for a Dental Exam

Preparing for your routine dental exam can ensure that the appointment is smooth. Consider the following tips to ensure you are fully prepared for your dental exam.

Arrange Your Payment:

Before you head to the appointment, consider the cost of the appointment. Your insurance will likely cover your routine dental appointments, but each plan is different. Check to see what your insurance covers and talk with the billing department about how much you owe them. This can help avoid any surprises on the day of your appointment.

Write Down Questions:

Things can get busy on the day of your appointment, so be sure to write down any questions you have in advance. Talk with your dentist in Norco about any of your oral health concerns. They can provide you with their recommendations and tips to improve your oral health.

Verify Your Appointment:

Most dental offices send you a reminder text, call, or email. If you don’t get that 48 hours before your appointment, call and verify your appointment. Be sure to ask the receptionist what you need to bring to the appointment and if there are any preparatory steps you need to take. This can ensure your appointment goes smoothly.

Communicate Your Fears:

Many people experience dental anxiety. In fact, more than one-third of the population is impacted by a fear of the dentist. This is understandable, and you should not feel any shame about it. However, if you avoid the dentist because of your fear, it can have a serious impact on your oral and overall health. Communicate your fears with your dentist in advance. Depending on your level of fear and the type of treatment you get, you may be able to get sedation. Your dentist will work with you to ensure you feel comfortable enough to get regular treatment.

Brush and Floss:

Dental exams involve cleaning your teeth. However, brush and floss before your appointment. Getting rid of food particles and any other leftover debris is helpful. This can reduce the amount of time the staff spends cleaning your teeth. This is beneficial for you as you can get in and out of the dental office faster. If possible, avoid eating right before your appointment.

Arrive on Time:

Get to your appointment on time (or early!) as this can ensure you have enough time to fill out any paperwork. If your dentist is ahead of schedule, you may be able to get in to see them sooner. For those who have dental anxiety, this can be helpful as you’ll feel like you are more in control. Feeling rushed when you arrive at the last minute can be really stressful.

Schedule Your Next Dental Exam

If you haven’t visited the dentist in the last six months, schedule your next dental exam at Absolute Family Dentistry. They can provide you with a cleaning and any other treatments to ensure your oral health is on the right track. They offer services for the whole family so you don’t have to visit different offices. Contact their team today to schedule appointments for the whole family!