Whether you’re going in for regular routine treatment or for a more complex procedure, you will be wise to prepare yourself ahead of time. Because many people of all ages are anxious about seeing the dentist, working with a dentist like Dr. Ben Johnson at Johnson Family Dental, who understands how to communicate and be compassionate with their patients is so essential. Here are some of the key things you can do to prepare for a dental visit and feel more relaxed and confident.
Come Well Rested and Fed
You’ll feel calm, cool, and collected with enough rest and a full belly at your appointment. If you prefer morning appointments, then schedule your appointment late enough in the morning to give you time to wake up and eat a good breakfast before you go. For later appointments, just be sure to get enough rest the night before with enough time to eat before you arrive. If you get to the dentist and you’re feeling hungry, you’ll already likely be on edge a little bit.
Choose the Best Dentist
The importance of choosing the right dentist cannot be overstated. Make sure you’re comfortable with your dentist and have built a positive rapport with him or her. This is important because you’re more likely to confide your concerns over your dental treatment and oral hygiene with someone you know and trust.
Have Your Information Handy
You’ll have an easier time if your appointment runs like clockwork. If you aren’t prepared with dental records, dental history, or any other information your dentist had requested beforehand, you’re more likely to feel flustered and increase your anxiety.
Arrive Early
The best practice is to be a few minutes early to your appointment, so you have some time to unwind and practice some meditation or breathing exercises beforehand. When you’re not in a rush and arrive at the dentist early, you’re adding stress to what may already be a nerve-racking situation for you.
Talk to Your Dentist
If you’re feeling nervous about your appointment, don’t be shy about it. Your dentist has likely worked with many patients who have the same concerns that you do. Even if it’s been several years since your last appointment, your dentist will be able to work through your concerns with you. One of the greatest traits of a good dentist is understanding and seeing an experienced dentist who has tools and techniques to help you through your appointment is vital to the success of your appointment now and going forward.
Tell the Truth
Honesty is the best policy in every relationship and this applies to your relationship with your dentist as much as any other. When your dentist or the hygienist asks you about your oral hygiene habits, be truthful. You may be nervous to tell them about any painful or uncomfortable spots in your mouth, but you should always disclose to your dentist these issues, so they can help you on your healing path. Besides, your dentist can probably tell if you claim to brush and floss every day when you haven’t been.
We hope these tips will help you the next time you visit your local dentist. If you are looking for a family dentist in Paducah, KY, we hope you will consider Dr. Ben Johnson and our team at Johnson Family Dental. We are conveniently located at 2913 Lone Oak Rd, Paducah, KY. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment you can call us at (270) 554-2432 or CLICK HERE to contact us today!