How to Talk to Your Dentist

Despite having a fear of dentists, you can feel more confident at your next dental appointment. To minimize your stress, express upfront your anxieties and ask your dentist any questions that you have. Good dental care is important not only for teeth, but also for general health reasons. Dentists are often the first to detect more serious medical problems, such as oral cancer.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask a friend to come with you if you are nervous. Your friend can prompt you if you are unsure of what you want to ask the dentist. Prepare a list of questions or concerns you want to ask the dentist. Be prepared to answer a series of questions when you first see the dentist. Your dentist needs to know details about your dental history, medical history and general lifestyle.

• 2

  Take a list of medications you have been prescribed and include the dosage. Medical conditions such as diabetes can affect your oral health. Also describe any treatment you are receiving for high blood pressure or osteoporosis as this may also directly affect your dental treatment.

• 3

  Tell the dentist about any toothache or discomfort. Do not gloss over this because of fear of the treatment. Dental techniques are now advanced enough to significantly reduce the discomfort of treatment. If this is not your first dental visit, tell your dentist of any health changes since your previous visit.

• 4

  Ask your dentist to explain in simple terms anything you do not understand. Or if you are worried about a specific issue, such as gum disease, ask about your current oral hygiene practice and whether you should be doing something differently.