It time for your dental visit and if you're new to Christopher T. Pawelek, then here's a few things to help you prepare for your visit:

Confirm the Appointment
Start by verifying the appointment time 24 hours in advance. Some offices will do this for you, but it's always a good idea to avoid miscommunications by checking in.

Transfer Dental Records
If you're a new patient, contact your old dental office and have your dental records sent to your current dentist.

Arrive Early
Give yourself enough time to complete forms, get to know the staff and relax before your appointment. It's hard to feel comfortable in the dental chair when you're feeling rushed.

Prepare Your Information
When filling out the new patient information page, be prepared to provide your complete medical history and form of payment. If you're a current patient, provide your dentist with any changes to your health, medications or dental insurance.

Discuss Dental Problems
Communicating with your dentist about dental problems can help determine dental treatment. Write down any dental problems you've experienced over the past six months, even if they're dormant. That way you won't forget anything, and it may keep you from having to make an emergency appointment if they flare up again in the future. Include such details as:
• When the pain started or ended
• Which area of the mouth you feel discomfort
• The level of pain you experience, and whether it comes and goes or is constant
• Any side effects, such as bleeding gums or swelling

Answer Questions Truthfully
Give details about your oral hygiene routine, including how often you brush and floss. Your dentist may want to know about past dental problems and the last time you visited a dentist. Be honest -- disclosing this information is not meant to embarrass you, but to improve your dental health.

Face Dental Anxiety
Your first step in getting past dental anxiety is making the appointment. Once you've scheduled the visit, don't postpone it -- putting off your dental visit can cause dental problems to worsen. Don't be afraid to tell your dentist about your fears. Dentists now use a variety of methods to successfully treat fearful patients.

Schedule Treatments Accordingly
Most dental procedures last longer than regular dental exams, so be sure to schedule your appointment during a time that is convenient for you. Ask your dentist how long the appointment will last and what to expect after the procedure. Following your dentist's post-operative or post-treatment guidelines will help you avoid complications and make a full recovery.