The American Dental Association recommends that everyone have two routine checkups and cleanings a year. These appointments allow a qualified oral health professional to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums, inspect your mouth for any issues, and address problems in their early stages. Unfortunately, many people are anxious about seeing their dentists, but knowing what to expect and preparing beforehand can take a lot of stress out of waiting for your next checkup. Here’s how you can make your next routine dental visit easier.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Caring for your teeth properly at home will make it easier for your dentist to clean them during your appointment. To keep your smile in great shape, stick to the following rules:
- Brush at least twice and floss at least once daily.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash as needed.
- Limit your consumption of sugary or acidic items like candy and soda.
- Refrain from using your teeth to open packages or bottles.
- Abstain from tobacco.
It’s also a great idea to brush and floss before your appointment, as this will help minimize the amount of plaque on your teeth when your checkup begins.
Arrive on Time
Dentists have busy schedules, and arriving late can make it more difficult for their practices to run smoothly and provide excellent oral healthcare for all their patients. By arriving a few minutes ahead of time, you can ensure that you can get your paperwork in order before your treatment begins and your dentist has all the time they need to perform a thorough exam and cleaning. Arriving on time can also take a lot of stress out of the experience by giving you a few minutes to rest before your appointment begins.
Delay Working Out
Regular exercise is one of the best ways to keep your body healthy and strong and maintain a positive attitude, but working out right before your dental appointment can leave you quite sweaty. It’s most courteous to save your exercise session for after your dental appointment so the staff won’t have to clean the sweat off the treatment chair.
Regular dental visits are absolutely crucial for maintaining the beauty of your smile as well as your oral health. Taking care of your teeth will help you keep your checkups smooth, effective, and free from unpleasant surprises like cavities and gum disease.
About the Practice
Northbrook Dental Group offers the most excellent oral health services in town. Led by Drs. James and Justin Woodruff, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys courteous service and compassionate treatment in a warm and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To book your next dental checkup, contact the practice online or dial (847) 272-0049.