If you’ve put off going to the dentist for some time, you might not be sure what to expect during a routine teeth cleaning. You can rest assured that the process still revolves around sitting in a chair while the dentist treats your teeth with a variety of specialized instruments, but you might still wonder if there is any discomfort involved. Here are some tips on how to prepare for your appointment so that you can put your doubts to rest, minimize your discomfort, and get the best result possible.

Treat Yourself to a Round of Oral Hygiene Before You Arrive

You can’t hope to undo years of poor oral hygiene with one round of brushing and flossing, but it can’t hurt. Before you arrive at the dental office, thoroughly brush and floss your teeth before rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash. Not only will there be less for your dentist to clean, but it will give them a chance to assess your personal hygiene so they can give you any instructions you might need to improve it. Your dentist might also appreciate your recently freshened breath.

Communicate Clearly with Your Dentist

Being frank with your dentist can help them understand your needs and anxieties during treatment. You might do this by requesting that your dentist explain what each tool does before they use it or letting them know that you have sensitive teeth. Your dentist is there to help and will not judge you for any condition you might have, so don’t worry about being honest about your needs and oral health history.

Save the Whitening for After Your Appointment

You might think that treating your teeth with whitening strips or some other over-the-counter method before seeing your dentist might help you make a good impression, but it can make your appointment more complicated than it has to be. Whitening treatments can temporarily make your teeth more sensitive to touch and temperature, and having to deal with that during a dental cleaning can make the appointment much more stressful. Instead, you might want to request a consultation for a professional teeth-whitening treatment after the cleaning is over.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medication

If you’re worried about pain during your dentist appointment, it is perfectly acceptable to take some aspirin or ibuprofen before sitting in the chair. This can help keep you comfortable by reducing inflammation and some medications might help you feel more relaxed. You might also try using a desensitizing toothpaste before your appointment.

Any preventative dental appointment is far more pleasant than dealing with tooth decay or gum disease, but following these tips should help keep your treatment comfortable. It is commendable for someone to face their anxieties to safeguard their overall health, and you deserve a healthy smile.

About the Author

Dr. Minh-Phuong Bui earned her DMD from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine before participating in a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at South Cove Community Health Center in Boston. She currently serves as a member of the American Dental Association and the Massachusetts Dental Society. Her practice in Lakeville, MA offers preventive, cosmetic, restorative, pediatric, and emergency dentistry. If you’re interested in scheduling a cleaning appointment, contact her online or dial (508) 802-5173.