When many people think about oral hygiene, the first thing that comes to mind is brushing and flossing their teeth. And while it’s important to keep your mouth clean on your own, visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings is also integral to maintaining a happy and healthy smile! That said, you might be due back for one of your biannual visits in the near future. Here are five tips from your dentist in Coppell to ensure that your next dental checkup is smooth and stress-free.
Tip #1: Brush Before Your Appointment
If you haven’t been regularly keeping your mouth clean, don’t think that you can fool your dentist into thinking so by brushing directly before your appointment—they’ll be able to tell if you’ve been neglecting your teeth! That said, you can still brush prior to your visit. If you’ve recently eaten, this will reduce the amount of lingering food debris in your mouth, making it easier for your dentist to detect issues like tartar buildup and gum inflammation.
Tip #2: Show Up on Time
This is just a good rule of thumb in general but showing up on time can go a long way towards ensuring that your dental checkup goes smoothly. Your dentist is a busy person, and their time is quite valuable; show them that you respect their schedule by showing up when expected, or even earlier if possible. This will also ensure that your dentist can spend an adequate amount of time with your smile.
Tip #3: Don’t Exercise Beforehand
It would be a little rude to show up for your appointment drenched in sweat and wearing damp, smelly clothes! This will just make things unpleasant for both you and your dentist, so wait until after your visit to hit the gym or go for a jog. Not to mention, exercise also increases the body’s blood flow which can sometimes complicate what treatment you’re able to receive.
Tip #4: Ask Questions
Your dentist is an expert when it comes to oral healthcare, so don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you have about your smile. You can also speak openly about any concerns you have or issues you’re experiencing. There’s no reason to lie or hide anything here; be honest, informative, and curious so that your dentist can inform you accordingly. You can also let your dentist know if you’re experiencing any dental-related anxiety and ask about sedation dentistry options.
Tip #5: Know Your Budget
Some people dread going to the dentist because of the financial implications; the burden of payment can often make things stressful! That said, consider figuring out your budget prior to your appointment, so you have one less thing to worry about at the end of your visit. If you have dental insurance, keep in mind what types of treatments are covered and what the out-of-pocket costs are.
Dental checkups should not be sources of stress in your life! Instead, they should be something that you feel confident about. Follow these tips to ensure that your next visit is a smooth experience that leaves you feeling good about your oral health.
About the Practice
Sandy Lake Dental & Orthodontics proudly serves patients and families in the Coppell area. The practice is fortunate to house five skilled specialists: Dr. Brandon Horton, Dr. Chris Gibson, Dr. Cecile Nguyen, Dr. Monica Bazan, and Dr. J Theodorou! Their practice is pleased to offer several available services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit, feel free to reach out online or over the phone: (972) 393-7348.