…And other excuses we use to avoid getting a regular checkup and cleaning

We’ve heard a lot of excuses over the year from folks who aren’t too keen on coming in for a regular checkup and cleaning.  We like this list of excuses written by one dentist, and this Wiki-How spoof for kids on avoiding dental appointments is pretty funny, too.

We all know why it’s important to see your dentist for regular checkups.  An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and all, right?  In February, we’ll be spending time highlighting the connections between oral health and whole-body health.   What’s stopping some of us from coming in for that checkup?

Last week we told you about our resolutions for 2014.  In keeping with Resolution # 1, we spent time carefully reviewing comments and feedback from our patients, including some roadblocks that might be preventing people from coming in for a checkup.  Here are some of those, as well as what we’re working on to make it as easy as possible to come on in.

1. I keep forgetting to book an appointment/call the office.

Some of us do our best thinking in the shower, or remember things in the middle of the night when we should really be sleeping.  Or we remember about 22 seconds after business hours.

We hear you!  That’s why we have evening and weekend hours – not everyone’s day can end at 4:30 PM.  It’s also why we offer evening hours and 24/7 access to online appointment booking with ZocDoc.  You can make your appointment anytime from your computer, tablet or smartphone.  This is also a great option if you’re really shy or have a crazy case of laryngitis – we can confirm your appointment and even send your reminders all via email or text.  No talking necessary!  Did we also mention that once you’re a patient with us we can send you appointment reminders via email or text, and that you can pop them right into your calendar app?

2. I don’t have dental insurance/I don’t think I can afford it.

Full price for a dental check-up and cleaning for some dental clinics can run upwards of $200.  We think that’s just a little bit bonkers.  Regular checkups are important, so we believe they should be affordable, even if you don’t have dental insurance.

We have a pretty sweet prize for completing our quick and funny dental health habits survey, or you can contact any of our offices to find out our special pricing for first-time patients, as well as for returning patients.

3. It’s hard to find a dentist I really like!

Finding a good healthcare provider can be a little bit like dating.  It’s important to find someone who you like, who you can communicate well with, and someone you can see yourself with for a long time!   Everyone has a different style and different needs.  It’s important to have choice when it comes to choosing a dentist.

At 1st Family Dental we have an amazing group of dental professionals on our dental team.  With so much talent and choice, there’s a great chance you are going to find someone you really click with, in addition to finding a dentist who is wonderful at dentistry!

 4. Honestly, I’m terrified of going to the dentist or to dental offices.  I get anxious!

Ssssh – we’re going to let you in on a little secret.  Just because we work in a dental setting all day long doesn’t mean that all of us, or our family members, can jump in that chair without a second thought!  Dental anxiety is a very real thing.  Our staff are extremely compassionate (and quite perceptive), and are great at putting anxious patients at ease, both adults and children.  If that isn’t quite enough, our doctors are experienced in various sedation techniques, including pre-appointment methods, as well as the administration of Nitrous Oxide.  Nitrous Oxide can be used safely on both adults and children, and the effects wear off almost immediately.   Don’t let pain drive you intake control of your dental health.  You can do it!  Just give us a call or book an appointment online and we’ll take it from there.

 

 

 

5. I’m afraid the dentist is going to tell me I have cavities or need work done!

Well…. it is our job to make sure you are the person with the most information on your overall dental health.  The best time to have a discussion about treatment options and timing is when you’re feeling good and not in pain.  If you do need some treatment done, our doctors can talk to you about prioritizing – what is most important to you and your health, and work with you and your schedule to get it done.  Our staff are experts at helping you to maximize your insurance benefits if you have it.  We also have options to help make treatment affordable for you and your budget, whether or not you have insurance.  We offer financing and payment plans for multi-step procedures, and discounts of 30-50% on most procedures.

Do you have more questions or comments?  How can we help you?  Feel free to contact our staff at a location near you anytime via phone or email.

PS – We’re not worried your dog will eat us – we love dogs and pets in general!