A dental visit in later life goes more smoothly when you prepare your health information and bring a family member along.
- Bring your insurance card, prescriptions and recent test results.
- Tell the dentist about conditions, allergies and current medicines.
- Eat lightly beforehand and bring a family member if you can.
- Walk in during working hours or call 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times.
In older adults, dental problems often come with other health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or a long list of daily medicines. A dental visit is safer and more useful when you prepare a few simple things beforehand. This article explains what to bring and what to tell the dentist.
What to bring with you
Gather the following papers and information so the dentist can quickly understand your general health:
- Your health insurance card and identity papers.
- Your prescription or the boxes of medicines you take, especially heart, blood thinning and diabetes medicines.
- Your medical record book or the most recent test results, if you have them.
- The denture you currently wear, if you want it checked or adjusted.
- Reading glasses, so you can read any forms you need to sign.
What to tell the dentist
Describe the conditions you are being treated for, any allergies, past episodes of long bleeding and earlier surgeries. If you often feel anxious or have felt faint at medical visits before, say so, so the team can raise the chair slowly and pause when needed. You can also read our article on what a general dental check-up includes to picture the visit.
Before and after the visit
Have a light meal before you go instead of fasting for a long time, and take your blood pressure or diabetes medicines as directed by your own doctor. Bring a relative if you can, to help you on and off the chair and to hear the instructions afterwards. After the visit, ask the relative to write down important advice, eat soft food if your teeth feel sensitive, and return early if you notice swelling, pain or bleeding that does not stop.
The clinic works by queue number. You can come in during working hours or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times, which are easier for older patients. See also how often a routine dental check-up is reasonable.
Frequently asked questions
Do older adults need to fast before a dental visit?
Usually not. A light meal helps avoid low blood sugar, unless the dentist gives different advice for a specific procedure.
Should I stop my blood pressure or heart medicine before a dental visit?
Do not stop on your own. Ask your treating doctor and tell the dentist about every medicine you take.
Should a family member come along?
Yes, if possible. They can help you move around and remember the advice given afterwards.