5 Ways to Prepare for Your Next Visit to the Dentist

New York, USA, June 7, 2024 – Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining good oral health and catching early signs of issues to resolve them with minimal inconvenience. However, going to the dentist can make people feel anxious or be stressful. Gathering information beforehand and understanding your dental insurance — including specifics like whether you have dental insurance that covers implants — can give you added peace of mind and help your visit go more smoothly. This article will dive into five ways to prepare for your next dental visit.

1. Have all necessary information ready

Gather the necessary information and documents the day before your dentist appointment. This will give you time to ensure you have what you need and shorten your time at the dentist. Information and documents to gather beforehand include:

• Dental insurance information (such as your insurance card)
• Photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or other government-issued ID)
• List of current medications, if any
• Medical or dental history updates
• List of questions or concerns
• Payment method, such as a credit card, check, or cash

If switching dentists, you can contact your previous dentist and ask them to forward information regarding dental records and X-rays. Make sure to do this further in advance to make sure the new dentist gets these records.

2. Clean your mouth

Spend a little extra time brushing and flossing before your visit. If it’s later in the day, rinse with mouthwash or, if you have already used mouthwash that day, with water. Don’t be too aggressive, as you could damage your gums.

Cleaning your mouth regularly in between appointments is also crucial to keeping your mouth healthy. This can also minimize discomfort during your appointment and speed up the process since your dentist can clean each tooth more easily. Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Gently floss once a day to remove any particles stuck in between your teeth. Consider using mouthwash if necessary.

You can also ask your dentist for recommendations on dental products to use at home. They can help you identify reputable brands that maximize oral health.

3. Bring any oral appliances or devices

Bring oral devices, like mouthguards, retainers, or dentures, to your next dental visit. This can allow the dentist to check each device’s condition, clean it if necessary, and ensure it still fits and works properly. Furthermore, the dentist can provide use and care tips to help your device last longer and achieve better results.

4. Understand your dental coverage

Dental insurance policies can differ in covered services and coverage amounts. Most will offer coverage for preventive care, such as checkups, but the amount you owe may vary by policy. Checking your coverage becomes even more important if you’re going in for a procedure. See what procedures your policy covers and how much you must pay. If you have any questions, call your insurer for clarification.

5. Arrive early

Try to arrive about 15 minutes before your dental visit. This will reduce the stress of feeling rushed to get to your appointment. If it’s your first time at a new dentist, it also offers extra time to fill out any forms, update your medical history, or discuss insurance.

Be prepared for your next dental appointment

Dental health is crucial to your overall health and well-being, but you can’t only rely on strong oral health habits. It’s also important to visit your dentist regularly. Fortunately, there are ways to make these visits more effective.

Gather any necessary information and documents and understand your dental coverage before going in. Make sure you maintain good oral habits between visits and spend some extra time cleaning your mouth beforehand. When it’s time for your visit, arrive early and bring your oral appliances. Taking these steps can make your visit quicker, smoother, and more successful.

Coverage underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus. In New York, coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of New York.

Dental 81000: In Delaware, Policies A81100–A81400. In Idaho, Policies A81100ID–A81400ID. In Oklahoma, Policies A81100OK–A81400OK. In Virginia, Policies A81100VA–A81200VA.82000: In Delaware, Policies A82100R–A82400R. In Idaho, Policies A82100RID–A82400RID. In Oklahoma, Policies A82100ROK–A82400ROK. In Virginia, Policies A82100RVA–A82400RVA.

Coverage is underwritten by Tier One Insurance Company.

In Delaware, Policy T80000. In Idaho, Policy T80000ID. In Oklahoma, Policy T80000OK.

Dental claims are administered by Aflac Benefits Solutions, Inc. Vision claims are administered by EyeMed Vision Care, LLC.  Hearing claims are administered by Nations Hearing. NOTICE: The coverage offered is not a qualified health plan (QHP) under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and is not required to satisfy essential health benefits mandates of the ACA. The coverage provides limited benefits. Tier One Insurance Company is part of the Aflac family of insurers.

Content within this article is provided for general informational purposes and is not provided as tax, legal, health, or financial advice for any person or for any specific situation. Employers, employees, and other individuals should contact their own advisers about their situations. For complete details, including availability and costs of Aflac insurance, please contact your local Aflac agent.

Coverage may not be available in all states, including but not limited to DE, ID, NJ, NM, NY or VA. Benefits/premium rates may vary based on state and plan levels. Optional riders may be available at an additional cost. Policies and riders may also contain a waiting period. Refer to the exact policy and rider forms for benefit details, definitions, limitations and exclusions.

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Z2400356  Exp. 4/25

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