Most people who make dental appointments don't think too much about their upcoming exam or cleaning, but maybe you should. By really taking the time to prepare for your visit, you might be able to enjoy a higher standard of care because your dental team will be able to understand your goals more completely. Here are three ways to get a little more out of your next dental visit. 

1. Learn More About Your Insurance Coverage Prior to your appointment, look over your dental insurance coverage. Evaluate your benefits summary page, and consider calling your insurance company to ask which line items are covered under the umbrella of preventative care. 

Ask how much of your current deductible or max out of pocket you have already spent, and how much coverage you have left. Some dental insurance plans max out at a certain amount each year, so knowing where you are can help you to know how many additional services you can schedule. 

If you find out that you have coverage for add-ons like braces and orthodontic care, teeth whitening, sealants for your kids, or dental implants, think about calling an adjusting your appointment slightly to take advantage of your coverage. 

2. Take Time to Talk with Your Dentist Instead of answering that everything seems fine with your teeth, take the time to chat with your dentist about anything that has been bothering you regarding your oral health. Examples of things to mention might include chronic bad breath, a strange taste in your mouth, or a thickening of the skin of your lips, cheeks, or palette. 

Although these details may seem inconsequential, they could trigger alarm bells for your dentist, because some progressive oral diseases, such as gum disease and oral cancer, start with seemingly insignificant symptoms. By mentioning issues early, your dentist can take a more proactive approach with your dental care, saving you time and money. 

3. Be Totally Honest During your appointment, be completely honest regarding all aspects of your dental health, including your daily routine, your smoking status, your diet, and your level of hydration. Although many patients are nervous about what their dentist might think, your dental team can't help you if they don't have a clear understanding of your personal patient history. 

By really focusing on improving your next dental appointment, you can make the most of your time and do what you can to enjoy better oral health. Contact a clinic and dentist, like Accent On Dentistry - Rowena R Martir DMD, to find out how you can accomplish your goals.