| Sometimes going to the dentist can be a little scary, especially if you don’t know what to expect! Well, here are some tips that will help you relax and make the most out of your dental exam: |
|
| 1. |
If you are seeing a dentist for the first time, you will need to complete a medical history form. Please be honest about your health issues including any medication allergies that you have that may pose a conflict with future dental treatment. Remember – all information is confidential. |
|
| 2. |
The dentist or a hygienist will check your teeth and the soft tissue inside your mouth, including your gums, cheeks and tongues. Using their fingers as an instrument they will examine under your jaw and along your neck feeling for swollen glands and other unusual conditions. |
|
| 3. |
The dentist may want to take x-rays, if you’ve never had x-rays taken or yours are not current. This helps detect any early signs of decay and other problems, that cannot be easily seen by the naked eye. |
|
| 4. |
The dentist or a staff member will clean your teeth. If this is the first time that you’ve had your teeth cleaned professionally it may feel strange at first or even tickle a little. But it is very important to have them cleaned professionally on a regular basis because dental professionals can reach and clean areas that we usually miss in our routine daily brushing. |
|
| 5. |
Your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment or the placement of sealants. A fluoride treatment is a flavored solution that is applied to your teeth to help strenghen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. A sealant is a plastic type of material that is applied directly into the grooves on the chewing surface of the back teeth. It acts as a covering to keep out plaque and food, thus decreasing the risk of decay. |
|
| 6. |
The dentist or a staff member will let you know what they find during your oral examination and if you need to be rescheduled for further dental treatment, and what needs to be done. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions that you may have. Remember it’s your mouth, and they are there to help you! |
|
| 7. |
Be sure and keep your dental appointments. Dental problems do not go away, they only become worse, resulting in pain and in some cases lose of a tooth ruining your pretty smile. |
