Etiquette can vary wildly from culture to culture. In some places, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a home, while in others holding hands with friends is a normal practice. Though it’s not exactly its own culture, your dentist’s office has its own norms and proper etiquette you may not be aware of. If you’re looking for a way to make your next dental appointment easier and want to know how you can put your best foot forward during your visit, here are a few suggestions!
Keep it Clean
While you can’t brush away months-worth of tartar with one fell swoop, you should still brush your teeth before your dental appointment, especially if you’ve recently eaten. This will allow your dentist a clear path to your teeth so they can focus on removing the buildup and not your lunch!
Tell the Truth
If you haven’t been flossing or brushing as much as you should, let your dentist know at your appointment. Don’t worry, nobody is going to judge you or punish you for not taking excellent care of your teeth but sharing that information can help your dental team know why your teeth and gums are in their present condition, and alert them to any areas you might need assistance with.
Be Mindful of Others
Sometimes you don’t have the luxury of attending your dental appointment alone. If you need to bring along a guest such as a child or even another adult, please be mindful of the other patients who may be undergoing treatment nearby. Keep conversations quiet and ask children to remain safely seated while at the dental office. This is not only to keep the atmosphere calm, but also for their own safety.
For young children who may have difficulty sitting still, bring along another adult who can tend to them, or arrange outside childcare if possible. This way you can focus on yourself instead of stressing out about what your child is up to during your visit.
Give Proper Notice
If you must cancel your appointment, be sure to do so as soon as possible, preferably at least 24 hours in advance. Your dentist understands that emergencies happen, but the more notice you provide, the better the chance they can use that opening to help another patient.
If you are running late, contact your dentist’s office at once. Most practices have a grace period and can still accommodate you if you are a few minutes behind, but if you are too late to complete your full exam, you may need to come back at another time. Save yourself the frustration of coming all the way in only to be rescheduled and call as soon as you know you are running behind.
Remember, being a good citizen means adapting to the customs of your community, whether you’re in your own neighborhood, on vacation, or even at the dentist’s office. With the help of these tips, you’ll certainly get an “A+” in patient etiquette!
About Dr. Arditti
Dr. Alexandria N. Arditti has led Pacific View Dental Group since 2017. Dr. Arditti enjoys working one-on-one with patients to help them achieve their oral health goals. She understands the connection between oral health and overall health, and it’s her goal to ensure that everyone who steps into the office receives personalized care and attention.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Arditti, please visit our website or call us at 714-592-4294.