By Andrew Howard, D.M.D.
Most of us visit the dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning. Since the dentist or dental hygienist is going to clean your teeth anyway, is there any point in brushing, flossing or using mouthwash as you are running out the door to go to the appointment? After all, you don’t hose off your car before you go to the car wash.
Arriving for your appointment with the cleanest mouth possible is always a good idea. Right before you leave for the dentist’s office, brush and floss, and then use an American Dental Association–approved mouthwash. Less food and debris on your teeth means less scaling – the removal of tartar and plaque from the teeth — during the visit. It also lowers the potential for gum soreness during and after the appointment. (Keep in mind, however, that a dentist can tell if the only time that you brush and floss your teeth is right before you visit him.)
Also, as a courtesy to the dental hygienist and dentist, try to avoid eating garlic or onions or drinking wine, beer or other alcohol on the day of the appointment. Even after brushing, flossing and rinsing, these odors will linger.
| A Patient’s Top Concerns/Questions | Overlapping Goals Talk to your doctor about these issues. | The Doctor’s Top Concerns/Questions |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Should I brush my teeth before I leave for my cleaning appointment? 2. Can I brush at the dentist's office when I get there? | Yes. Brush and floss. If you arrive early enough, you can request a toothbrush and toothpaste from your dentist and brush at the office. | 1. Will the patient be on time for the appointment? |
| 3. Will my dental hygienist/dentist know if I brush and floss only occasionally? | Your dental hygienist and dentist will usually know if you do not brush your teeth or floss consistently. | 2. Will the patient be in good dental health? 3. Will the patient be receptive to any home care or treatment recommendations? |
| 4. Will insurance cover my cleaning appointment? | Usually. You may want to check with your insurance company prior to the visit. | |
| 5. If it is my first appointment at the office, should I bring my dental records (X rays, chart notes, letters)? | Whatever information is available from the previous office will be helpful to the new office. Allow at least two weeks for records to be mailed to you. | |
| Follow up appointments are key to fixing any existing problems and maintaining healthy teeth and gums. | 4. Will the patient schedule any necessary follow-up appointments? | |
| Your dentist not only wants you to get excellent care: He or she also wants you to have a pleasant experience. Do not hesitate to offer feedback on how you are feeling during the visit. | 5. Will the patient have a pleasant experience at the office? |
Andrew Howard, D.M.D., has a private practice in general and cosmetic dentistry in Morristown, New Jersey.