Dental appointments may not be the highlight of your to-do list, but they are necessary in order to keep your smile and mouth healthy. At our dental office in Austin, we go out of our way to do anything we can to make these dental visits easier for our patients. We also believe that a little preparation can go a long way in making sure your next appointment goes smoothly. That’s why we’re here to give you four things you can do prior to your appointment that will ease your mind.
Confirm Your Appointment
You take your time seriously, and so do we. That’s why we always encourage dental patients to confirm their appointment at least 24-hours prior to their visit. Depending on your dentist, this could mean calling the office, or you may receive an appointment reminder from the dental office itself. Either way, make sure you confirm the appointment in order to keep everyone on schedule.
Know Your Health History
Just like your medical team, your dentist in Austin also needs to know your health history in order to provide you the best care possible. At your visit, you may be asked to update your health history form, and if you’re a new patient, you will need to complete a new patient intake form including, a full medical history. Make sure to note any medications you may be taking along with their dosage, any health problems you may have, and if you are pregnant.
Be Open and Honest
In order to get the best dental care possible, your dental team needs you to always be open and honest with them. This includes talking about any dental fear or anxiety you may have. Your dental team will want to know if you are feeling worried so they can find the best way to help you relax. Also, be willing to share any concerns you may have or changes to your oral health. If your gums have been bleeding, share that. If you’re not quite so happy with the way your smile looks, talk about that too. Your dentist and the entire team is there to help you alleviate any pain you may have and give you a smile you love.
Look to the Future
After you complete your visit, you will probably be asked to schedule your next appointment. This will most likely be six months away. Prior to coming in, take a look at your calendar six months from now. Are there any vacations you need to avoid? Work trips coming up? Knowing what your life could look like in six months can help you find a date that works with your schedule quickly and easily.
Even though a dental appointment may not be exactly what you want to do, trust us when we tell you that maintaining regular visits is the best way to keep your smile healthy and make sure your appointments go easily.
If you are looking for a new dentist in Austin, we’re always welcoming new patients and would love to see you. Give us a call today!
