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If the thought of a visit to the dentist fills you with dread, it always pays to be ready no matter what kind of dental procedure you’re having. Whether you’re stepping in for a quick cleaning or are undergoing surgery, preparation can go a long way in making your experience at the dentist relatively smooth and stress-free. Not only that, but the steps you’ve taken to prepare will also likely affect the outcome of your procedure.
Here are some of the preparatory measures you can take to get ready for your dental procedure at a trusted local dentist to ensure it goes well:
1. Bring Dental and Medical Records
Bringing your dental and medical records to a new dentist is especially important. Unlike a dentist who’s familiar with your history, a new dentist will depend on your records to fully understand the state of your oral health and how best to help you. After evaluating your records and most recent x-rays, your dentist can then evaluate you more properly for the optimal treatment plan.
2. Have an Evaluation Done
Good dentists will never jump right into a dental procedure without doing a proper assessment first. The best dentists will always do a thorough and extensive dental examination to find out what the condition is and the most suitable treatments. Using your overall health and the oral examination, your dentist will choose the right treatments. Your dentist might choose alternative procedures and treatments depending on your medical history and your oral concern. If you are diabetic, for instance, your dentist may not advise dental implants due to the risk factors associated with the healing process.
Asking questions is an important part of the evaluation. After your dentist has completed the evaluation and informed you of the treatment, ask the following questions to make sure you are as prepared as possible:
- A step-by-step explanation of the procedure
- What anesthetic will be used and how it will be administered (local or general)
- Preparations required for the procedure
- What to do and what to avoid before the procedure
By gathering this information, you can walk into your dentist’s clinic on the day of the procedure feeling more confident and prepared.
3. Take Medication as Prescribed
After the procedure, take any medication your dentist prescribes, whether it’s an antibiotic or a simple pain reliever.
4. Follow Instructions
Dentists will usually tell their patients not to eat twelve hours before the procedure and to consume only soft food and rest afterward. It’s critical for the patient to follow these instructions because any deviations can cause delays in healing or further damage to the area.
Being aware of any instructions you’ll have to follow will help you be better prepared for recovery as well. If you know you’ll need soft foods for a few days, go grocery shopping beforehand—you’ll thank yourself later!
5. Arrange Your Transportation
Before your procedure, schedule your estimated time of arrival to be at least one hour before you’re meant to actually start. This gives you plenty of time to fill up all the necessary paperwork and mentally prepare for the procedure. The nurses and clinic staff may also conduct preparatory tests.
It’s also important to arrange for transportation after your procedure since driving home when the effects of the anesthesia haven’t fully worn off is not advisable.
Conclusion
Dental appointments and procedures are difficult enough without all the paperwork and preparation involved. The best way to approach it is by preparing well beforehand, including your dental and medical records, state of mind, logistical arrangements, and everything you need for recovery. Researching your dentist is key as well, especially if you’re on the lookout for quality, affordable dentistry. By taking all these steps, you’re sure to be prepared for a smooth dental procedure.
At Dental House MI, we prioritize our patients’ well-being first. Each staff member has years of experience in delivering quality service, whether it’s cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, oral surgery, dental implants, and more. Make an appointment with us today!
