Good Questions to Ask Your Dentist During Your Very First Visit
Many people opt to visit their dentist only if they have a toothache – however, this avoidant attitude is something that will likely do more harm than good. Having regular check-ups can actually help you to avoid getting a toothache in the first place.
It is much easier to go to the dentist if you feel that you can trust them so when you are first meeting your dentist, make sure you get to know them by asking them some pointed questions. You will have the opportunity to ask them a few questions, so use that chance to discuss a few things about how the dentist works and what they know.
- What are their areas of expertise?
Some dentists do cosmetic dentistry, some specialize in working with children. Find a dentist that has the expertise you need for your circumstances.
- How much do you use X-Rays
It is sometimes important to use an X-ray for diagnostic purposes, but you may not want to have an X-ray every time you go to the dentist. Find out what your prospective dentist thinks of x-rays. Ideally, you want someone who shares your philosophy or at the very least is willing to discuss their reasoning with you so that you can understand it.
- What about teeth whitening?
Some dentists have good expertise in teeth whitening. Ideally, you want to discuss the issue and learn the benefits and downsides. Teeth whitening has the potential to make your teeth temporarily more sensitive, so if you suffer from sensitive teeth, make sure you discuss this with your dentist. A good dentist will be able to offer you alternatives, and recommend whitening treatments that carry a lower risk.
- How do you deal with nerves?
Many people have had bad experiences with dentists while they were children, but a good dentist will discuss what happened, and will then offer advice and explain how things have changed. There are new sedation techniques and distractions, and dentistry, in general, is less painful, so you have no reason to be nervous these days.
- Who do you normally work with?
Sometimes, hearing from past and present patients can be a big help. Ask if you can get references from past patients – this is especially important for things like braces or for extensive cosmetic surgery or for implants. If you are going to spend a lot of money, and you are worried about experiencing a lot of pain, then you will want to make sure that you can be confident that you will good aftercare attention and that the treatment will be worth it.
- What about payments?
Of course, when you are paying for treatments, you will want to make sure that the payments make sense. You should walk out of the office understanding the terms of your treatments, and what you pay for and when. Your dentist should discuss your budget with you so that you get the best possible treatments at a price that you can afford, without undue stress on your wallet.