You have your dental procedure on the calendar, and the day is approaching. Whether you have had a consultation or not, you may have a few questions to ask. Sometimes it is difficult to know what to ask because, well, we only know what we know. However, the more you know about your procedure, whether you’re getting your teeth whitened or dental implants, the easier it will be.
Here are some important questions to ask your practitioner, from family dentists to the top cosmetic dentists.
How will my smile look when this is finished?
Some dentists have the capabilities to show you a close rendition of how your smile should look when the procedure is finished. You can also ask for before and after pictures of other patients to get an idea of how your finished smile will look.
Will I need sedation or anesthesia?
Some procedures are simple, like tooth whitening. Others are a bit more invasive, like dental implants, and may require sedation. Knowing this beforehand can help you mentally prepare if you tend to get nervous.
How will I pay?
Sometimes you need to pay in full on the day o, so if this is the case, make sure you have what you need for payment. It will make leaving easier, and you may want to get home and rest after your procedure and not mess with financial issues.
What time frame am I looking at?
This can be a two-part question. Find out how long the appointment itself will take and if when you leave are you good for the day or do you need to take it easy? You should also ask about any follow-up appointments or what the next step is in your procedure. This helps in planning.
Do I need medication?
If your dentist is going to prescribe a painkiller or antibiotic (or something else), see if you can get it filled before your appointment. That way, you’ll have it ready, and if you don’t feel your best, you don’t have to worry about getting to the pharmacy.
Is this my best option?
This is a great question and a very important one. Sometimes there is only one option, sometimes your dentist may just give you one option. Find out if there is an alternative and what the best thing is for you.
When you are at the dentist’s, ask away. Remember: This is your mouth, your health, your smile, and your wallet. The more information you can arm yourself with, the better your overall experience will be. You should be able to trust your dentist to provide these answers.
If you have any questions about dental work, contact us at Watkin Dental Associates. We are always available to answer your questions.
