Trips to see your dentist can be pain-free and pleasant, especially when you're properly prepared. Since most people need to see the dentist at least twice a year, it only makes sense to make sure those dental appointments are as fast and easy as possible. You can ensure that you have a good dental appointment by doing these things at the dental office.

1. Arrive early.

It's always a good idea to arrive at the dental office early. You might run into unexpected traffic on the way, or the parking lot may be more crowded than you expect. In any case, it's wise to give yourself at least 15 minutes of cushion before your appointment so you're not in a rush. Late patients may have to reschedule their appointments, which would be a shame after driving all the way to the dental office. Avoid unwanted cancellations by being prompt.

2. Update your information as needed.

Once you establish yourself as a regular patient of a dental office, the dental staff will keep your information on file. Their records will include past x-rays, your treatment history, and your medical information. Make sure to update your dental office whenever your medical information or insurance status changes. If you start taking a new medication, become pregnant, or develop an illness, you'll need to let your dentist know. You should also update your dental insurance as soon as it changes so you don't get overcharged for dental services.

3. Freshen up before seeing the dentist.

At the start of your dental appointment, a dental hygienist will direct you to rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash. This will kill most of the bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath before your dental exam begins. However, many people find that doing a little oral care before arriving at the dental office helps to allay embarrassment about the dentist examining their teeth. If it makes you feel better, you can gently brush and floss your teeth before arriving at your appointment.

4. Let your dentist know how you're feeling.

You may not realize it, but your dentist cares about how you're feeling. If you're nervous about your dental exam, it's important that you say so. Your dentist can modify their approach to appease your anxiety by explaining their process or giving you time to collect yourself. Your dentist can also offer you some types of in-office sedation if requested.

To learn more, contact a dental office.