Even with the best intentions, certain habits can make your dental appointment more difficult and less effective.
Many of these behaviors seem harmless but actually make your dentist’s job harder. Here’s what dental professionals wish patients would stop doing.
Lying about brushing or flossing
One of the most common issues dentists see is patients not being truthful about their oral hygiene. According to Whitney White, your gums often reveal the truth.
Being honest helps your dentist give you better advice and improve your oral health without judgment.
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Exaggerating how often you wear your dental device
Orthodontists frequently meet patients who don’t admit when they forget to wear their aligners or follow instructions.
Nayson Niaraki emphasizes that honesty and teamwork are essential to achieving the best results.
Showing up late
Arriving on time shows respect for both the staff and other patients. Catrise Austin explains that lateness disrupts the clinic’s entire schedule.
A quick phone call if you’re running behind can make all the difference.
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Skipping your appointment
When patients miss an appointment without notice, it affects both the clinic and others who need care.
Jenna Chimon says that canceling in advance allows the office to offer the time slot to another patient in need.
Dropping by without an appointment
Walking in without scheduling might seem harmless, but it throws off carefully planned procedures.
Catrise Austin advises always calling ahead, especially in emergencies, so the clinic can accommodate you safely and efficiently.
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Using waiting time poorly
Some patients check their phones or leave the waiting room right before they’re called in.
Catrise Austin says this causes delays and disrupts the schedule. Being ready when called helps the team stay on track.
Trying to talk during treatment
Talking on the phone or attempting to speak while your dentist works makes the procedure harder and less safe.
Austin recommends silencing your phone and focusing on your health. Chimon adds that patients can simply give a thumbs-up if they need a break.
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Starting the visit with negativity
Many patients begin appointments by saying they hate the dentist. Catrise Austin explains that leading with negativity sets the wrong tone.
Instead, tell your dentist what makes you nervous so they can make the visit more comfortable.
Complaining about cost isn’t productive either, ask about payment plans or preventive care options instead.
Taking your shoes off in the chair
Some patients treat the dental chair like a recliner and remove their shoes.
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Catrise Austin notes that this is unhygienic and unprofessional. A dental chair is a medical environment, not a living room.
Forgetting that dental care is teamwork
Nayson Niaraki reminds patients that dental care is a partnership.
Hiding problems or skipping instructions only extends treatment time and makes it harder to achieve the desired outcome.
Failing to update your dentist on changes
Not informing the clinic about health or medication updates can affect treatment. Even small details may be crucial for your safety and the effectiveness of care.
Not asking questions
Some patients remain silent even when they feel unsure or worried. Dentists like Whitney White and Catrise Austin stress that asking questions is part of good care.
When you express your concerns, your dentist can explain and adapt treatment to make you feel more comfortable.
This article is based on information from Real Simple.