If you are to visiting a dentist for the first time, you may wonder what it’s like and what you should avoid. Of course, you should expect the essentials, such as nurses, hospital beds, etc. But as a specialist center, there are several differences from a normal clinic or a dental office. And during these times of global pandemic, dentists in Peterborough have rules to maintain a safe environment for patients. There are also things to avoid for good oral care during your dentist appointment. Below, we share four things to avoid while visiting your dentist:
- Avoid wearing uncomfortable clothes to the dentist
You may be going for a dental cleaning or any purpose requiring the dentist to work on your teeth. The clothes you wear should allow easy movement of your neck and head. The clinic may give you their overalls which may protect your clothing. But there’s no guarantee that the hospital gown will fully cover your own. It is better to leave your best clothes for another day and hold the lipstick until after the visit.
- Avoid hiding your medical history from the dentist
If you are visiting a dentist for the first time, they may ask you questions about medications or any current health issue. Many people tend to forget that a dentist appointment is a medical one too. This keeps them from being honest about their medical records, and this can be dangerous. Being open about your medical history is crucial, so the dentist knows what treatments or procedures to avoid if necessary.
- Avoid makeup and take off jewelry
Going to a dental clinic means you will most likely get a dental procedure. Which would require skin contact or the dentist using tools on your facial area and mouth. It will be best to hold off on any makeup, especially lipstick and foundation, to keep your face from getting too messy. You can apply your makeup afterward if you have someplace to go.
- Don’t eat or drink in a dental clinic
This may sound like a no-brainer, but it is worth mentioning. In fact, eating, drinking, or smoking for up to 5 hours before a surgical procedure is discouraged. You want to keep food particles from lodging between your teeth. It can cause irritation during your procedure and make it tougher for the dentist to do their job.
In addition, don’t be nervous. But if you are, dental clinics usually have nitrous oxide, popularly known as laughing gas. If you speak to a nurse, they can arrange some for you before your procedure. Though it is not free, some insurance may cover this. So you can check if yours do or pay the small fee to alleviate your anxieties.
There are many other Don’ts, but they depend on your reason for visiting the dentist. For example, don’t brush your teeth before a teeth-cleaning procedure, etc. Also, during these times of viral infectious diseases, dental clinics have special Don’ts to curb the spread of these viruses. It is helpful to always check on their guidelines and adhere to them when you visit a dental clinic.
