Most people want to be respectful and polite when interacting with others, but sometimes etiquette seems like another language. Every social environment has its own quirks, and your dentist’s office is no different! To learn how to speak their dialect of common courtesy, keep reading. This list of mindful manners will be your guide!
Rinse, But Hold Off on Brushing
Believe it or not, some dentists prefer you not to brush before your appointment. Their reasoning is that they’ll clean your teeth professionally anyway, and your breath can actually cue them in to certain oral conditions. It’s best to show up with your natural-smelling breath.
On the other hand, if you just finished eating, take a moment to rinse out food particles. These qualify as obstructions that your dentist could do without!
Don’t Sweat It!
Seriously! It’s one thing if the summer heat makes you slightly moist on your way to the door, but if you’re sticky from recent exercise, your patient chair will be gross. It’s sort of the dental equivalent of neglecting to wipe down the equipment you used at the gym. So just relax until after your appointment is over.
Phone Rules Apply
It might be hard to imagine someone talking on their phone while the dentist works on their teeth, but some people try it! Avoid this practice, but also keep your phone in your pocket during consultations. It’s in your best interest to pay attention during these important planning sessions.
Save the Lipstick for Later
You know how lipstick can rub off on napkins and glasses of water? Well, it can also get on dental tools as your dentist maneuvers them around your mouth. Bright shades can also make cosmetic and restoration treatments more difficult during color-matching, so resist the urge to freshen up if these options are part of your appointment.
Be On Time
It’s understandable when life circumstances slow you down, but in general, you should be on time for your appointments. Your friendly neighborhood dental office runs a tight ship! If you’re five minutes late, that means the patient after you could be pushed back five minutes. And the patient after them. It’s beneficial for everyone involved if you stick to the schedule as much as possible.
Honesty Is the Best Policy
Don’t lie to your dentist. First, you’re seeking their assistance, so you’re doing yourself a disservice by distorting the truth. Second, your dentist is a doctor. As in, they’re checking on your oral health. Even a “white lie” about your hygiene routine could throw them off the trail of something that’s impacting your wellbeing. Once again, you’re the one that could be hindered by inaccurate information.
Keeping these manners in mind will help you show appreciation for your dental team, but at the end of the day, they’re a friendly bunch. If you forget a courtesy or two, they won’t banish you from their office. Just remember to treat others with kindness and consideration, and you’ll be golden. Your appointments will likely go more smoothly, too!
About the Author
Dr. Byars has over a decade of experience in providing personalized, comfortable care for patients in Kansas City and the surrounding areas. A true local, he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Missouri in Kansas City. During his residency, Dr. Byars received advanced training in restorative care and implant dentistry, making him uniquely qualified to fit patients with stunning dental implants. To book an appointment, call his office at 816-781-8222 or visit his website for more information.