4 Tips for An Easy Dental Checkup

Many people see dental checkups as an annoying chore to put off. They’d rather spend that time on something else, whether work or leisure. However, the irony is that this attitude only makes things worse. The ‘chore’ only becomes more difficult when you don’t consider how to make it easier on everyone.

Listed below are four tips for simple and easy dental checkups in La Porte. Practice them in the future so that a shiny smile doesn’t take as much effort!

Arrive on Time (or early!)

Arriving on-time is one of the best ways to ensure a smooth appointment. It shows respect for your dentist’s busy schedule — they’ll like your keeping things orderly. Furthermore, it will give you the leeway to mentally prepare yourself for upcoming questions and treatment.

It would be even better if you showed up early. Patients who arrive five minutes or more before their appointment tend to experience less anxiety during their visit.

Reschedule if Necessary

If scheduling conflicts arise, don’t just skip the checkup. You’ll miss out on oral health benefits like plaque removal, not to mention services that could prevent later problems.

Feel free to reschedule your visit instead. The office will appreciate the heads-up. However, remember that every dental practice has a different protocol for canceling and rescheduling appointments. Learn the relevant policies beforehand so you aren’t stuck with a checkup you can’t attend.

Mention Questions, Concerns, and Self-Care

During the checkup itself, go ahead and bring up any relevant questions, concerns, or issues. After all, your dentist can’t offer solutions if they don’t know the full scope of your problems.  Once you give them this information, they’ll better know how to examine you. They can then make an accurate diagnosis and offer possible treatment options.

You should be truthful about your medical history and home dental habits for similar reasons. Even if you’re embarrassed to admit your poor brushing or flossing, it’s better than not receiving proper care.

Clean Your Teeth Before Your Appointment

Make sure your teeth are clean before your checkup. A good brushing with fluoridated toothpaste will reduce the time dental assistants spend cleaning them. Plus, tartar buildup is easier to address when there isn’t food debris to work around. For thorough cleaning, don’t eat anything before the appointment.

Dental checkups work best when they move smoothly and without obstacles. Follow the above suggestions so your teeth and gums get exactly what they need!  

About the Practice

Region Dental is a dental practice based in the La Porte, Indiana community. Believing in the value of personalized care, they build trusting relationships with patients to ensure effective treatment. Their services include preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry.  They also offer same-day emergency care and sedation treatments. As led by Drs. Daniel Berquist and Joseph Ornelas, their team is the favorite family dentistry in La Porte! For more information or to schedule an appointment, the practice can be reached at their website or by phone at (219)-362-8980.