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DASH Listings > Topic Details
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Getting the Most Out of Your Dental Appointment
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Your appointment time with the dentist is usually under thirty minutes which means you want to prepare ahead to get the most out of the appointment time. The following tips will help keep you focused on you or your child's dental health and less distracted by interruptions.
- Arrive on time.
- Teach your children to be respectful of the office waiting room and dentist's office.
- Bring a small toy or books for your child to play with quietly in the waiting room.
- Try to speak in low quiet tones.
- Do not wear strong aftershave, colognes or perfumes some people are sensitive to strong scents.
- Do not bring food or drinks to the waiting room.
- Do not use your cell phone in the doctor's waiting room.
- Take all items you brought into the waiting room with you when you enter the treatment room.
- Do not leave young children unattended in the waiting room.
- Review any changes that have occurred in your child's or your health with the hygienist or dentist before being treated. Be sure to tell the dentist about allergies or medications you or your child are taking.
- Be active in your child's and your own oral care by asking questions and reviewing instructions for home care. If something is not clear, ask the dentist or hygienist to repeat their directions for care or medications. Ask the dentist or hygienist to write out important information for you to remember. Ask if the information is available in a language you are comfortable reading.
- Talk with your dentist about proper nutrition, fluoride and you or your child's dental health.
- Talk with your dentist about the effects of smoking or chewing tobacco if you smoke cigarettes, cigars or pipes or chew tobacco products.
- Talk to your dentist before getting oral piercings, many times they can severely harm the teeth or gums.
- Make an appointment for your next visit before you leave the office.
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