Ask friends and family members to recommend a dentist they go to or have seen. Most people won’t suggest a dentist they don’t like. [1] X Expert Source Alina Lane, DDSBoard Certified Dentist Expert Interview. 21 April 2020. Read reviews of local dentists either online or in publications like the newspaper. Call your insurance company to ask if you are required to see in-network dentists or if you can pay extra to see someone out of network. Most insurance companies can provide you a list of doctors who are a part of their network. [2] X Research source Compile a list of potential dentists and write down factors that drew you to them.
Give the receptionist your basic information, including whether or not you have insurance. Let them know any other relevant information, such as if you have a fear of dentists or significant dental issues. [3] X Expert Source Alina Lane, DDSBoard Certified Dentist Expert Interview. 21 April 2020.
Schedule your appointment early in the morning if you can so that less likely to have to wait for a long time. [4] X Research source Tell the receptionist you prefer mornings. Accept whatever times the receptionist offers. Tell her that your dates and times are flexible, which may help you get an appointment in a slot you want. Be kind and courteous with the receptionist.
Compose a one or two sentence description of your visit. For example, you could say “I am a new patient and would like to consult with the doctor” or “I am scheduling a routine cleaning. ”
Ask for the names of a couple of doctors if the referrals cannot take you or return to your list. Check to make sure the referral dentist is in your network if you have insurance.
Be kind and as flexible as possible. This may help you get an appointment as well as leaving a positive impression.
Confirm your appointment a day or two in advance. Call the office if you are running late or need to reschedule. The earlier you can call the receptionist, the more likely she is to accommodate you. Take any insurance information or other relevant data you may need, such as what prescriptions you are taking or other doctors you see. The office may also send you forms in the mail to bring to your visit.
Schedule a consultation before your first appointment if you like and it is an option. [8] X Research source Ask your dentist any questions you have and answer any she may have for you. [9] X Research source Be open and honest with your dentist. Tell her about any medical conditions you have, dental problems you are experiencing, or medications that you take. Tell your dentist if you are anxious or fear of dental procedures. This can help guide the way she treats you. [10] X Research source Being honest about your anxieties and past experiences can only help your dentist treat you more effectively. Ask your dentist to keep you informed as she is doing the procedure. Remember that you have the right to know what is happening. [11] X Research source Establishing a good personal connection with your dentist is important; it will help your dentist treat you more effectively, and you will feel more comfortable. Dental work involves concentration on the task at hand but also interactions with patients.
Try nitrous oxide, sedation, or anti-anxiety medications such as alprazolam to help you relax during your visit. [13] X Research source Your dentist can administer these options before and during your visit. If you are very scared, ask your dentist to prescribe anti-anxiety medication before your appointment. [14] X Research source Tell your dentist if you take any anti-anxiety medication that she did not prescribe. This can help minimize the risk of potentially dangerous interactions between medications. [15] X Research source Using sedatives during a dental procedure can increase the price, which dental insurance may not cover. Try breathing exercises. Inhale for 4 seconds, hold it, and then exhale for 4 seconds. As you inhale, think the word “let” and as you exhale think “go. ” These can deepen your relaxation. [16] X Research source
Take your own headphones if you like, but know the dentist’s office will sanitize their equipment in between patients. Ask if you can listen to music or a book during your appointment if your dentist doesn’t offer distracting media. [18] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source
Ask your dentist any questions you have on follow up care or instructions she gives you on how to care for your oral hygiene. [19] X Research source Get any prescriptions you need, including for medications or procedures such as dental impressions.
Ask any questions about the insurance or payment procedures so that you don’t miss a payment. Tell her about follow up visits you need to schedule and what the nature of them is, which she may already have on your doctor’s instruction sheet. Thank the receptionist for her help.
Take care of your oral health by brushing and flossing at least twice a day. This can reduce the need for complicated procedures. Prevention methods can help you reduce dental costs and better your oral health.
