So, you have a dentist appointment coming up and want to be prepared for it. You’ve come to the right place! 

Many people feel anxious when visiting the dentist, so knowing what to do before and after the appointment can relieve some of that anxiety. Others just haven’t been to a dental appointment for a while and need a refresher! 

If you suffer from dental anxiety or dental fear, Dr. Abbey J. Lee, dentist in Grant Park, can help you feel relaxed and comfortable in our spa-like dental practice. Call us today to schedule your appointment. 

Here are some helpful tips for those who want to prepare for before and after seeing the dentist. 

Tips for Before Seeing the Dentist

Here are some guidelines for what to do before your dental appointment: 

1. To eat or not to eat? That is the question. 

In most cases, it’s a good idea to eat before your dental appointment. A full belly will make you even more comfortable and relaxed. After eating, be sure to brush and floss. 

If you have severe dental anxiety, an empty stomach can help you avoid feeling nauseous during your appointment. 

2. Keep up your oral hygiene routine. 

Don’t neglect your teeth just because you know they are going to get a good cleaning at the dentist’s office. Continue to brush twice a day and floss daily in the days leading up to your appointment. 

3. If prescribed, take your oral sedation medication. 

Those with severe dental anxiety may need oral sedation to help them through their dental appointment. This will be prescribed beforehand and should be taken an hour before your appointment. 

4. Ask a friend or family member to join you. 

Depending on the type of appointment, you may be required to have someone drive you to and from your appointment. However, even if you are just visiting the dentist for a cleaning and exam, having a friend or family member join you can ease feelings of fear and anxiety. 

Tips for After Seeing the Dentist

Here are some guidelines to abide by after your dental appointment: 

1. Pain Relief

A dental cleaning, scaling and root planing, tooth extraction, and placing a crown or veneer can all cause some level of pain or discomfort. Talk to your dentist about prescribed numbing agents, prescription pain medications, and over-the-counter medications. 

2. Eating and Drinking

After a dental cleaning, you can eat or drink immediately. However, you may want to avoid anything that is extremely hot or extremely cold. After a fluoride varnish, it is recommended that you wait 2-3 hours before eating or drinking. 

If you have undergone a restorative procedure or oral surgery, these guidelines will be much different. Your dentist will provide you will aftercare instructions.  

3. Schedule Your Next Appointment

Before you walk out the door of the dentist office, be sure to schedule your next appointment.  This is the easiest way to ensure you don’t forget to schedule it by phone. 

Meet Our Grant Park Dentist

Ready to schedule your appointment? Dr. Lee is known for providing compassionate, top-notch dental care to patients in Atlanta, GA. Call our office today at (404) 328-7177 to schedule your appointment.