5 Tips for Making Your Next Dental Checkup Easier

When it comes to maintaining a happy and healthy smile, regularly visiting your dentist is key! However, dental visits can be stressful, anxiety-inducing, and a bit of a hassle for some patients. If you aren’t feeling too confident about your next dental checkup, don’t worry; here are five tips from your dentist that will help to ensure the visit is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Tip #1: Brush Before Your Appointment

If you haven’t been brushing your teeth regularly, you won’t be able to fool your dentist into thinking so by brushing directly before your appointment! That said, it’s still helpful to brush your teeth prior to your visit, especially if you’ve recently eaten. This will reduce the number of lingering debris and food particles inside your mouth, making it easier for your dentist to spot issues like tartar buildup and gum inflammation.

Tip #2: Show Up on Time

Your dentist’s time is valuable, so showing up on time can go a very long way. Not only does it show your dentist that you respect their time and their other patients, but it also ensures that your dentist has an adequate amount of time to spend taking care of your smile. Not to mention, patients who show up early to their dental visits usually experience less dental-related anxiety.

Tip #3: Don’t Exercise Beforehand

Even though exercise is good for you, it’s not wise to work out right before your dental checkup. Showing up and sitting down in the chair with damp, sweaty, and smelly clothes will create an awkward and unpleasant situation for all parties involved. Exercise also increases the body’s blood flow, which can sometimes complicate what treatment you’re able to receive.

Tip #4: Ask Plenty of Questions

When it comes to oral healthcare, your dentist is the expert! Don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you have about your smile and how to take care of it. There’s no reason to hide anything from them or lie; be honest, informative, and curious so that your dentist can be as helpful as possible. You can also let your dentist know if you’re experiencing any dental-related anxiety and inquire about sedation dentistry.

Tip #5: Figure Out the Financials

For some people, price is a major factor in determining whether or not they can receive dental care. Since the financial implications of treatment can sometimes be complicated, consider figuring out your budget prior to your appointment. That’s one less thing you’ll have to worry about at the end of your visit! If you have dental insurance, be mindful of what treatments are covered and what you’ll have to pay out of pocket.

Visiting the dentist shouldn’t be a source of stress; it’s something you should feel comfortable and confident about. Following these tips can help make your next dental checkup a great experience that leaves you feeling wonderful about your smile.

About the Practice

Desert Springs Dental is honored to serve patients and families in the Gilbert, AZ community under the leadership of Dr. Shandy Condie. Dr. Condie received her dental doctorate from the Creighton School of Dentistry and is a member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Arizona Dental Association. Her practice is pleased to offer many available services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry options. To schedule an appointment, feel free to reach out online or over the phone at (480) 279-3100.