How to Book A Dentist Appointment?

Maintaining your teeth, gums and general dental health is essential for your overall health and well-being. However, sometimes scheduling a dentist appointment can feel impossible, particularly if you’re switching to a new dentist. The main points to consider when making a dental appointment are research and preparation. Follow these three steps to make booking a dentist appointment easy and hassle-free:

1. Choose Your Dentist

If you’re happy with your current dentist, feel free to move on to step two. However, if you’re looking for a new dentist, you’re going to need to do some research. Your search can start by asking friends or family members for recommendations, reading online reviews, requesting a list of dentists from your insurance company, or using a map to look for dental offices near you.

The easiest way to find and speak to a dentist is online, which is why new methods such as online consultations are becoming more popular. Toothfairy utilises this virtual method to see patients as quickly as possible with no delays, so if you’re in a rush to see a dentist or have an emergency dental problem, this is a great route to take.

Some questions you may want to ask the dental office include:

• How long has my dentist been practicing?
• Where did my dentist do her training?
• Can my bill be split into multiple payments?
• Who would I contact in the event of a dental emergency?
• Does my dentist offer free consultations?

2. Prepare Your Information And Questions

Before booking your appointment, you’ll need to have certain information ready, such as your insurance (or dental discount plan,) if this is the first time you’re using this dentist. They may need to collect basic information to coordinate pre-verification before your appointment. Also if you’re using a new dental practice, they will need the dental records from your previous location. Having the contact information of the last place you went to the dentist can help staff transfer records before your arrival. Plus, getting your most recent dental x-rays sent over may allow you to skip having them done at your next appointment, but some practices retake x-rays anyway. You’ll likely be asked the reason for your visit, so be prepared to describe the details of any dental issues you may be having.

It’s best to create a list with any crucial questions you want to ask. For example, if your primary language is different than what your dentist will likely speak, ask if any dentists speak your language or if any translation services are available. Whether or not you’ve been to this practice before, if you’re getting a procedure you’ve never had done, inquire approximately how much time it will take. For major operations, ask if you need someone to accompany you and if there are any post-operative guidelines you’ll need to follow.

Note down questions you have regarding your check-up or procedure, including any and all queries you may have about your teeth and gum heath. The dentist will want to answer all of your questions, so it’s better to be prepared so you don’t forget any important questions or crucial information.

3. Call or Book Your Appointment Online

If you have a lot of questions to ask, it’s better to book your dental appointment over the phone. Hearing a real voice confirm your appointment is booked can also feel reassuring. For other people, booking online is a better option.

Here is a list of a few things you can say to make your phone booking easier:

• Tell them if you’re a new patient or a returning patient.
• Let them know the reason for your visit: are you in pain? Is it just a routine cleaning? Suspect you have a cavity?
• Any preferences you have for your visit to make you feel more comfortable: male or female dentist, days and times you’re available.
• Let them know who your insurance provider is or what your benefits plan is. It’s best to choose an in-network dentist.
• Ask them if there are any specific medical records or information you need to provide before your visit.

There are several advantages to booking your dental appointment online. Some people feel anxious talking to others on the phone, booking online can be quicker, and you know right away whether your preferred time slot is available. When you make an online appointment, you will have to fill out a short form with basic information. If you are asked for your email or phone number, it’s likely that they can send you appointment reminders over email or text message.
A receptionist may also call you to ask for additional information they need. Cancelling a dental appointment online is usually even more straightforward than making the appointment. In the event you can’t make an appointment, go online to cancel as soon as possible so that another patient can use that time.

Toothfairy uses a quick and easy online booking system, so you can book your virtual consultation anytime and anywhere, to make sure the dentist is accessible for everyone.

Should I brush my teeth before my dentist appointment?

In short, yes, it’s a good idea to brush and floss a few hours before your appointment. Use your normal brushing routine, don’t overdo it.

Talk to Toothfairy

Book an emergency appointment here: www.toothfairyapp.co.uk/emergency-dentist