Everybody should visit the dentist. Not only do they have excellent treatment options for great oral health, but they also impart lots of sound wisdom to help you look after yourself better.
Unfortunately, not everybody thinks the same way. Some people dread the dentist, and fewer people seem to be visiting these professionals, behaviours spurred on by the pandemic. Others may not feel it’s worth visiting for simple checkups.
Still, there are many great ways to make your trip to the dentist worthwhile. There may even be ways to enjoy the experience more, too! Let’s explore your options below to get more out of your dentist visits.
Visit a Dental Spa
Trips to regular dentists can be quite clinical and dour. The same isn’t true for spa variations, though. For example, this Covent Garden dental spa takes extra steps to ensure patient comfort. Present since 2008, it’s a tranquil space that pays great attention to warm details and anything that maintains a relaxed ambience. State-of-the-art dental gadgets are also utilised here, so there’s no loss of expertise for the welcoming environment. If you can’t visit a central London dentist, look for a similar service where you are.
These spaces add a wow factor and can make the dentist visit fun. You’ll look forward to attending your appointments and immersing yourself in more calming surroundings. Staff maintain the atmosphere and keep everything light and friendly, and by the end, you’d feel as if you enjoyed a grand day out rather than running an errand.
Schedule Others In
Whoever said that you need to visit the dentist alone? Consider taking others with you and enjoy one another’s company. If you’re the head of a family, these outings can be a group effort, saving you time in the long run. If you’re trying to keep kids entertained and relaxed on the trip, you could schedule some fun activities before or after the appointment. That way, your dental visit can just be the start of a day full of excitement.
Waiting rooms can be much more lively in the presence of others. Chat, read together, or dabble in any board games these specialists may have. Quality time with loved ones can be enjoyed anywhere, and you may as well use the opportunity to bond.
Fill Out Their Surveys
Dentists may text you a survey to fill out before your arrival. It’s recommended that you provide them with all the information they ask of you. The questions can vary by specificity. The dentist may enquire about how much you drink alcohol and smoke and then ask more in-depth questions about your medical history. After all, things like diabetes can affect oral health, and so too can other conditions. Answer truthfully. You should only need to do so once (unless your situation changes), as the database should save your responses for your next appointment.
If you’re unsure about certain questions, that’s fine, as you’ll have plenty of time to think about them pre-appointment. If you’re uncertain about the nature of any conditions you may be suffering from, try to get those diagnosed and researched ahead of time so you can answer the survey more confidently. These answers help the dentist refine their approach to treatment for you, so the more forthcoming you can be, the better.
Prepare Your Questions
Your dentist shouldn’t be the only person asking questions. As a patient, you can get more out of your appointment by making a few enquiries. Decide on what these questions are pre-arrival. Is there anything you’re concerned about regarding your oral health? Does the dentist have a payment or membership plan to help you cut costs? Are you permitted to book more appointments? Can the dentist see any signs that you may be grinding your teeth at night? Some of these answers may arrive naturally through your dentist’s observations, but if you have doubts and uncertainties, ask.
Preparing your questions might seem like overkill, but much like doctors, dentists are very short on time today. There’s a backlog of patience they might need to see, and they could be overworked enough as is. Still, that shouldn’t put you off asking questions to save them time. Ask what you need to, but be prompt and prepared. You could even make notes or ask to record their responses so you won’t need to contact them later to clarify anything you’ve forgotten.
Master Your Anxiety
Surveys may not always ask you if you experience anxiety at the dentist. It can be hard to phrase your concerns as a question, too, so it’s best to just come out with it.
If you’re anxious about visiting the dentist, inform your specialist immediately. They’ll do everything they can to put your mind at ease and comfort you. For example, they’ll agree on a signal you can use to get them to stop what they’re doing mid-treatment. Assurances like those can make a big difference.
Remember, you’re not alone. Practice breathing techniques and meditation, and utilise all the support available. You’ll be in good hands.
