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Be prepared when you go: a checklist

Whether this is your or your child’s first visits to a dental provider, you are trying a new dental provider or new coverage or seeing the same dentist you will need to prepare for your visit. Keep in mind that children may need a little more preparation before going to the dentists.

For parents/caregivers of children, here are some things that you can do:

Take the Fear Out

For many children going to dentists can be an unfamiliar and sometimes a scary experience. You can help create a sense of safety around your visit to the dentist. Here are a few tips:

Dental Visit Checklist

You need to prepare and bring a few things with you to the appointment. Use this checklist to get everything and everyone ready. You can also print the same checklist here.

Before you go:

During your visit:

DID YOU KNOW?

You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect and receive quick and useful response to your questions and requests.
Refer to the Get Informed on Patient Rights section of this toolkit to learn more about you and your child’s rights.

Before you leave the office:

If you are happy with the care that you’ve received and you want to continue with this provider, ask to schedule your next preventive care visits (usually 6 month out) before you leave the office. Ask the office to send you a reminder via email, text or have it written down on a piece of a paper, office/provider business card or this checklist.

Have the following questions answered:

WRITE IT DOWN

During the appointment write down important information about the diagnosis, treatment options, follow-up care, medications, and other important information. Use a notebook to record all of your notes instead of a random piece of paper which can be easily lost. Use the notebook at home to write down any follow-up questions you might have for the dentist, symptoms, or other important information. As the dentist or staff is answering your question, write down their answers.