A Teenager's Guide to Braces

Going to the dentist is an event that should not be taken lightly.  The condition of your teeth and gums provides a snapshot of the overall state of your health, and having a dental professional examine your teeth and gums could end up being the very gesture that allows you to catch some minor health issue before it becomes major.  Although you may think that simply showing up and sitting in the chair is sufficient enough, use this information to learn more about how to maximize your next dental visit.

Journaling Is The Key

One of the most important techniques you can use to get the most out of your dental appointment is to use a journal.  Writing down oral symptoms is so key, since the subtle nuances that you deal with on a daily basis may fly right out of your head the moment you take a seat in the dentist's chair.

For example, you may find that even the slightest amount of brushing causes your gums to bleed.  Or, it could be that a glass of iced tea that you enjoy with a co-worker during a lunch break makes your teeth feel ultra-sensitive.  If you have a small notebook on hand, you can jot down these issues so that it becomes much easier for you to relay the information to your dentist during your next appointment. 

Keep in mind that journaling doesn't necessarily have to be done with physical pen and paper.  Many Smartphones also have applications or virtual notepads that you can just as easily use to document your symptoms for easy retrieval.

Ask About Pro Bono Services

If you're working with a tight budget, or if some of the services that you want are not covered by dental insurance, you may hesitate to bring them up during your dental visit.  However, this could be a mistake, since your dentist may offer pro bono, or free, services that could be very beneficial to you.

Asking your dentist about pro bono services is a great way for you to get the dental care you need without breaking the bank.  Some dentists offer these services as a way of giving back to the community, while simultaneously reinforcing how vital proper dental care is.  You may be pleasantly surprised to find that your dentist does offer pro bono care for the very procedure that you've been wanting.

Getting the most out of your time with the dentist doesn't have to be difficult if you know what to do.  Keep these tips in mind when you see your dentist so the appointment will be as valuable as possible.

To visit with a professional dentist, try a dentist such as Ann L Ortega DDS.