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Regular dental appointments are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental problems. If you’re a resident of Staten Island, NY, you may wonder what happens during a dental appointment and how to prepare for it.
This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of what to expect during your first dental appointment with a new dentist, common dental procedures, and tips for preparing.
Before Your Appointment
Scheduling Your Appointment
When it’s time to schedule your dental appointment, you have options. You can call your our Staten Island dentist’s office at (718) 948-5111, or schedule your appointment online. Choose a time that works best with your schedule. If you’re a new patient, make sure to provide us with your insurance information.
Updating Your Medical History
Please inform our dentists of any changes to your medical history since your last appointment, or if you’re a new patient. Provide a list of current medications, supplements, and allergies. Let our dentists know if you have any specific concerns or dental problems.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Before your dental appointment, you’ll want to brush and floss your teeth. Avoid eating or drinking anything before your appointment, unless instructed otherwise by your dentist. Wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing jewelry or accessories that may interfere with the examination.
During Your Appointment
Meeting Your Dentist and Dental Hygienist
Our dentists and dental hygienists will introduce themselves and ask you about your dental history. They may ask about any concerns or problems you’re experiencing. You may be asked to fill out additional forms or sign consent forms for certain procedures as well.
X-rays
If we don’t have your previous dental records, or it’s been over a year since your last X-ray images, we’ll capture detailed images of your oral structures. Your dentist will take X-rays to check for cavities, bone loss, and other issues that may not be visible during an exam.
Dental Examination
Your Staten Island dentist will begin by examining your teeth and gums for signs of decay, gum disease, or any other issues. They may use a dental mirror and probe to examine hard-to-reach areas. Your dentist may also check your bite and jaw alignment. They’ll let you know what they find or if there’s any cause for concern.
Dental Cleaning
After an exam, your Staten Island dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth during a dental cleaning. They’ll also polish your teeth and apply fluoride treatment to help prevent tooth decay from developing.
Treatment Plan
Depending on the condition of your oral health, our dentists may present you with a custom treatment plan. These treatment plans may include common dental procedures such as root canals, dental fillings, tooth extractions, and more. It all depends on your dental needs. While our dentists will recommend the best course of action, it’s ultimately up to you what procedures you move forward with.
Additional Dental Appointment Tips
- Dress comfortably.
- Bring a book or toy to keep you occupied.
- Tell the dentist or hygienist if you’re nervous or anxious.
- Ask questions if you don’t understand something.
- Be honest with the dentist or hygienist about your oral health habits.
- Follow the dentist or hygienist’s instructions for home care.
After Your Appointment
Follow-Up Appointments
Your dentist may recommend follow-up appointments for additional procedures or routine checkups. You can schedule your next appointment before leaving our dental office with our front desk team. Make sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations for maintaining good oral health at home.
Post-Appointment Care
Avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after fluoride treatment. If you had a dental procedure, follow your dentist’s instructions for post-procedure care. Continue to brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral health.
Get Started With Our Staten Island Dentists Today!
Regular dental appointments are crucial for maintaining good oral health. By knowing what to expect during your appointment and how to prepare, you can feel more confident and less anxious about going to the dentist. Remember to follow your dentist’s recommendations for at-home oral hygiene and schedule follow-up appointments as needed.
For residents of Staten Island, NY, call our dentists today to schedule your appointment. We’re gladly accepting new patients and will work with you to ensure that your smile is the best it can be.