Booking Appointments (Dentist)

Prepare for the Appointment

Before making the appointment, it’s helpful to prepare yourself to reduce anxiety. These tips can help:

• Write down your concerns: If there are specific aspects of the visit that make you nervous (such as sounds, smells, or the idea of certain treatments), make a list. This way, you can explain these to the dentist or dental staff in advance.

• Choose the right dentist: If you don’t already have a dentist, look for one who is experienced in treating people who have needs similar to yours. Many dental practices will advertise their experience with patients who need extra support.

• Bring a support person: If you feel more comfortable with someone you trust, ask a family member, friend, or carer to attend the appointment with you. This person can help with communication and offer reassurance.

Making the Appointment

To make a dentist appointment, follow these steps:

Option 1: Call the Dentist

1. Find the contact information: You can find the phone number of the dentist by looking online.

2. Explain your needs: When calling, ask if they can accommodate your needs. This might include offering:

• A quieter time for your appointment (e.g., early morning when the office is less busy).

• A dentist or hygienist who is experienced with patients who have sensory sensitivities.

• Extra time for your appointment to avoid feeling rushed.

Make the appointment: Choose a time that works for you and confirms that accommodations are available.

Option 2: Online Appointment Booking

1. Visit the dentist’s website: Many dental offices now offer online appointment booking. Look for an option to request an appointment.

2. Write a message: If there’s an online form, use the comments section to explain that you may need adjustments or support during your visit.

3. Choose your preferred time: Select a time that suits you best.

Tip: If making a phone call feels too stressful, you can ask a family member or trusted friend to make the appointment for you.

Prepare for the Appointment Day

The day of your appointment can trigger anxiety, so it's helpful to plan ahead:

• Plan your route: Knowing how to get to the dentist, whether by car, public transport, or walking, can help reduce any travel-related anxiety. If possible, practice the route in advance.

• Set reminders: Use your phone or a written calendar to remind you of the appointment time. This can help prevent any last-minute stress or confusion.

• Bring comfort items: If you have sensory sensitivities, consider bringing noise-cancelling headphones, a fidget toy, or anything else that helps you feel comfortable and grounded.

• Take deep breaths: Practice deep breathing exercises before you leave home to calm your nerves.

Arrive Early and Check In

Arriving a bit early can help you feel more at ease, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar environment.

• Arrive early: Arriving 10–15 minutes before your appointment will give you time to fill out any necessary forms and adjust to the surroundings.

• Check in: Once you arrive, let the receptionist know your name and that you may need reasonable adjustments during your visit. This can help them prepare and provide any accommodations you need, such as allowing you to sit in a quieter area or speak to the dentist about your needs.

Communicate Your Needs to the Dentist

When you meet the dentist or dental hygienist, it’s essential to communicate your needs. Here are some tips for explaining your needs:

Explain your condition: Let them know about things that you may struggle with during dental visits. For example:

• "I have difficulty with certain noises or lights."

• "I may need breaks during the appointment if I get overwhelmed."

• "I have sensory sensitivities, so some things may feel too intense for me."

Ask for adjustments: Request things that will make the visit easier for you, such as:

• Quieter equipment or lighting: If the sounds or bright lights in the room are difficult to manage, ask if they can dim the lights or use quieter tools.

• Shorter appointments: If long visits are challenging, ask if they can break up the appointment into smaller sessions.

• The option for breaks: If you get anxious during the procedure, ask if you can take short breaks.

Discuss any specific concerns: If there’s a particular procedure or sensation that worries you (e.g., feeling the vibration of the drill), let the dentist know so they can provide explanations or help prepare you for what to expect.

During the Appointment

When you’re in the dental chair, take things one step at a time:

• Ask for reassurance: It’s okay to ask the dentist to explain what they’re doing before each step. This can help you feel more in control.

• Use coping strategies: If you start feeling anxious during the appointment, try grounding techniques like:

  • Focusing on your breathing.

  • Squeezing a stress ball or holding a fidget item.

  • Looking away from the dental tools if they trigger anxiety.

• Request a break: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for a break. Dentists are usually very understanding and can pause the treatment when needed.

Tip: If you experience discomfort during the appointment (whether from the procedure or the environment), let the dentist know immediately so they can adjust their approach.

After the Appointment

Once your appointment is complete, it’s important to follow up:

• Ask for feedback: If you need to schedule a follow-up or a cleaning, ask the dentist to explain what’s next and ensure you’re comfortable with the next steps.

• Take care of yourself: After the appointment, take some time to relax. It’s normal to feel emotionally or physically drained after a visit to the dentist, especially if the experience is difficult.

Follow-up and Next Steps

• Follow-up appointments: If you need follow-up visits, try to book them during a quieter time and keep track of when they’re scheduled.

• Keep communication open: For future visits, you can continue to communicate your needs, and over time, you may become more comfortable with the process.

Additional Tips

• Bring a visual aid or written plan: If verbal communication is hard for you during the appointment, consider bringing a visual aid or written plan that explains how the dentist can help accommodate you.

• Prepare for sensory challenges: Some dental practices may have bright lights or loud sounds. Preparing for these triggers can help you feel more in control.

Final Thoughts

While making and attending a dentist appointment can be challenging, breaking it down into small, manageable steps can help you feel more in control. By preparing ahead of time, communicating your needs clearly, and using coping strategies, you can have a more positive experience at the dentist.