When it comes to maintaining your health, it’s consistency in the simple things – eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of water, brushing and flossing daily and getting regular checkups – that count.
That last one especially, getting regular health checkups, shouldn’t be overlooked. When it comes to oral health, early intervention from a trained dental practitioner helps nip problems in the bud. Scheduling (and sticking to) a consistent dental appointment schedule helps keep costs under control and prevents small annoyances from growing into uncomfortable, expensive, stressful problems.
So how to get the best from your regular maintenance check? How should you prepare for a dental appointment? And what shouldn’t you do?
Actually make the appointment
It’s the doing that’s the thing. Getting your teeth and gums checked by a professional, getting your teeth cleaned and polished and addressing any issues before they develop is important, and delaying a visit to the dentist won’t improve anything.
If it’s been a while, call Wellington Dentist Simply Dental on 0800 123 343 for an appointment or book online.
Clean your mouth before your dental appointment
No need to go overboard, but a quick brush to remove surface plaque before you visit the dentist is a good idea.
Know what you’re in for
Good communication is key to getting the most out of your dental appointment. If you’re not sure what your consultation will include, contact reception for details. Whether it’s a scheduled checkup, general cleaning, or a specific procedure, knowing what’s going to happen will help you feel more at ease.
Speak up
Once you’re at your appointment, if you have any concerns about your health, or if there’s anything in your medical history that we should know, be sure to speak up. Bring general questions and discuss any upcoming procedures.
Similarly, if you’re feeling anxious about a dental visit, talk it out with us. We’ll do what we can to make you comfortable. Mindfulness strategies, discussing your fears with your practitioner and skipping the coffee can help too.
Prepare for later
If you’re having a significant procedure done, ensure you’ve got soft foods and medication at home, and, if need be, transportation home.
The young ones
Remember, children in New Zealand are entitled to free basic oral health services from birth until their 18th birthday. It’s easy to enrol – just call 0800 TALK TEETH (0800 825 583). Most children’s first visit occurs between their 1st and 2nd birthdays.
Give your child a general idea of what they can expect to happen. If you’re unsure, call your clinic ahead of time to find out – they’re only too happy to help. Take assurance yourself that we’ll do everything possible to help your child feel comfortable during their visit.
What not to do
Don’t go overboard with the prep
Don’t try to do six months of flossing in the day before your dentist visit. It doesn’t work that way. While the temptation to floss to excess, aggressively scrub teeth or do a tooth whitening treatment before an examination is understandable, it’s a better idea to practice good oral hygiene daily and over the long term.
On the day of your visit just do your normal morning routine, or if your appointment is later in the day, brush and floss right before your visit.
Don’t come to your dental appointment if you’re sick
Hygiene is paramount at dental clinics. If you’re feeling ill, call the clinic to postpone your appointment.
Please don’t drink or smoke before your appointment
Regardless of the procedure you’re having, avoid the temptation to ‘take the edge off’ with an alcoholic drink. If you’re feeling a little anxious, let us know and we’ll do our best to put you at ease.
After your visit
Schedule your next appointment
Plan your next visit while you’re at the office – it’s the easiest and most sure way to stick to a healthy check up schedule. We’re happy to send you a reminder when your next cleaning, checkup or procedure is approaching.
To make a dental appointment in Wellington contact Simply Dental on 0800 123 343.