You have been seeing a local dentist for quite some time. The first few appointments the staff and dentist were very friendly and accommodating to your needs. As time goes on, they seem to be less responsive and have a bitter attitude towards you. Are they just having a bad day? There is a good chance that you could be the problem: an annoying patient.

The same thing that applies to any retail store applies to any professional business. If you bother the employee, you will receive lesser quality service. This is a fact. Even though Dentists and professionals in their office should put irritations aside and treat every patient the same, that is just not reality.

So what are some tips to make your dental experience a good one?

Tip #1 - Be a patient patient

There is nothing worse than someone who pesters you about something you cannot control. If you are trying to schedule an appointment and there are none for the next two weeks, calm down. Ask the staff if they can put you on a "waiting list" and notify you if any spots open up sooner. Staff will commonly do this for patients that are not bothersome. If you are waiting in the patient room for your appointment and they are running late, calm down. There could be a serious issue with another patient that needs immediate attention. Sometimes oral surgery requires slightly more time than expected due to unseen difficulties. Be patient.

Tip #2 - Do not fight with the dentist

The dentist is a professional who went through years of school to learn his or her position, do not critique them or tell them that they are wrong. You can ask them to explain what they are thinking, but do not argue with them; if the dentist can notice you haven't been flossing, do not go on the defensive. Be kind, take the advice the dentist gives you, and have a healthy mouth.