The First Visit…
You will make your appointment with the volunteer dentist's office that has agreed to evaluate your case. Be sure to arrive a few minutes early because you will have to fill out forms on your health history.
Because the dentist's office is a professional environment, make arrangements to leave your children with a sitter/family/friend. When you make your appointment, the receptionist will let you know if you need to bring anything with you (like health information, prescriptions) and how long the appointment might last. Make sure you know your schedule so you can make your next appointment (you will likely be making at least one more appointment).
Who You Will Meet at the Dental Office…
You will see several people in the office who want to make this experience comfortable for you. Please let them know if you have any questions or any concerns. All information is confidential.
- Front Desk (receptionist): This person makes your appointments, answers the phone and can answer any questions you might have either before or after your time with the dentist. Any questions you have on how to handle emergencies and needing to schedule an appointment can be answered by him/her.
- Dental Assistant: This individual assists the dentist with treatment procedures, takes x-rays, can sterilize instruments and will likely seat you when you arrive and take you back to the front desk when you are finished. He/she will put a bib or napkin around your neck to protect your clothing. Dress appropriately, because you will be lying back in the chair for a period of time.
- Hygienist: He/she generally cleans your teeth and provides oral health education. The dentist will review any treatment he/she provides. If you need an extra deep cleaning, you may need to go to a periodontist's (gum doctor) office.
- Dentist (Doctor): He/she diagnoses and treats diseases, injuries and any problems with your teeth and mouth. He/she will do an exam of your mouth, review your health history and any x-rays and develop a plan of action (treatment plan) for how to improve your oral health. He/she will explain the treatment you need including which problems are more urgent than others. While treatment can be phased in over time, be sure to understand what the consequences might be of delaying treatment.
- Specialists: It is possible that you will be referred to a dental specialist in addition to your general dentist. You will be notified by your advocate if you need a specialist appointment. You may see one of the
following types of dentists:
- Endodontist: Specializes in the nerve of the tooth (i.e., root canal treatment)
- Oral Surgeon: Specializes in many aspects of surgery around the head area. They perform biopsies and tumor removal in the head and neck region (i.e., oral cancer treatment, jaw realignment, complex tooth removal)
- Orthodontist: Specializes in straightening teeth (i.e., braces)
Periodontist: Specializes in gums and supporting structure of the teeth (i.e., gum disease treatment, complex bone surgeries, bone grafting, implants) - Prosthodontist: Specializes in full mouth restorations (crowns, bridges, dentures, implants or mixed cases)
You will, however, return to your general dentist to complete treatment. You will likely see the same dentist each time (unlike a medical appointment) because you are their "unique" patient.
Tips To Improve Your Oral Health (and that of your family)
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for two minutes each time.
- Clean between your teeth with floss, especially where the toothbrush cannot reach to remove food and plaque between teeth and under the gum line.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit snacks.
- Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles become frayed.
What Happens If Miss a Dental Appointment?
With just one missed appointment, you will be dismissed from the program. You must follow all of the dental office’s policies. Dental offices vary on their policies of missed appointments. Ask your dentist about his or her policy. Many dentists ask that you call to cancel an appointment at least 24 hours in advance. This will allow time for office staff to find someone else for your scheduled appointment. Those who don't call to cancel or excessively cancel will be dismissed from the program.
Should you cancel an appointment if you feel ill? If you feel up to the visit, keep it - unless you've got a fever, strep throat, can't breathe well or are too uncomfortable to sit in the chair. Some dentists also request patients to cancel if they have an active herpes virus or a cold sore around the mouth. If in doubt, ask your dentist if the visit should be rescheduled.
