How can I talk about comfort and questions at the dentist?

Hi, I'm Dr. Rivera. I'm a dentist.

How can I talk about comfort and questions at the dentist?

You can talk with the dental team about comfort before your appointment or when you arrive at the office. Sharing any past experiences or current concerns gives the team helpful information. This conversation is an important part of dental care.

Preparing a few questions in advance can be useful. You can ask the team what a treatment involves or what you might feel, hear, or see. Knowing the steps of a procedure can be helpful. For example, you might ask, "Can you explain what this tool does?" or "What will I feel during this step?".

Before work begins, you and the dentist can discuss how to communicate during the visit. This is a chance to agree on a nonverbal signal you can use while tools are in your mouth. A simple hand signal is a common choice.

Using this signal can let the team know you want a break. Since comfort levels are different for every person, your own feedback is important information for the team. Mentioning any pain or discomfort is helpful, even after a local anesthetic has been used to numb an area.

You can also request a step-by-step explanation as a checkup or treatment happens. Some people find it helpful to hear what different tools are for and what is coming next in the process. Asking about any new sounds or sensations is fine. The team can then describe what is happening as they work.

Call the office if you have questions about your visit or your care. This is general information, not personal instructions. Your own care team can tell you what applies to you.

Thanks for watching.