Welcome to my site! My name is Verity. I work as a receptionist in a dentist office. Every day for the past 20 years, I have come in to the office, worked on paperwork, and greeted patients. I love my job, because it has helped me meet a lot of really wonderful people. I have seen families grow up! But an added benefit from my job is that I have also picked up some small information about dentistry. I'm not one of the dentists, but I do know quite a bit about simple procedures and basic dental hygiene. Hopefully this blog can teach you something, but remember to always consult with your actual dentist for real professional advice!
About Verity Longpar
New College, New You, And A New Dental Practice
Eleanor Crawford
College is the first experience with true adult-like independence for many teens. If this is your first time away from mom and dad, you need to know how to handle unexpected emergencies—including dental issues. Before you leave for college, take a look at what you need to know about dental practice visits while you're away.
Find a Dentist Near Your Dorm
Do you have a dentist nearby? If you still see your at-home dentist while you're away at school, you need to find a new provider who can handle emergencies along with routine visits. While you can call your former family dentist with questions, they won't give you an over-the-phone diagnosis.
College students who live far from home (or far enough to make travel time-consuming) need a dentist nearby. In the past, your mom or dad probably searched for and found medical providers. Now, it's your turn. If you don't know where to start, you can do the following:
- Ask a student health center staff member. If your school doesn't have a dentist available for visits, the staff may direct you to a nearby provider.
- Ask a friend. Do you have a friend or roommate who grew up near your college? These insiders can share their dentist office picks with you.
- Ask a Facebook group. If you belong to a Facebook group for your college or college town, ask members for their recommendations. This widens your options beyond what your immediate friends have to say.
Time is of the essence in a dental emergency. Instead of a painful wait as you sort through recommendations, start your dental provider search as soon as you get to college. An early start provides you with an emergency option to call at the first sign of a toothache.
Keep Appointments
Now that you're an adult, it's time to stay on top of your schedule. Whether you have a routine checkup, a problem visit, or a follow-up, you need to take responsibility for making and keeping all appointments. This can help you to:
- Reduce risks. The dentist can check for problems, evaluate the progress you've made (if you have a problem), and recommend additional treatments. This can reduce the risk of a return issue or a serious complication.
- Provide peace of mind. If you're worried about a new or return problem, the dentist can examine the area and ease any concerns.
- Lead to better dental health. Regular checkups and care can lead to better overall oral health.
The freshman year of college is often overwhelming. If you struggle to make or keep appointments, set reminders on your phone, schedule your next appointment during your more recent one, or leave reminder notes for yourself in your dorm room.
A new college life means you need to find new medical providers. Ask college staff, friends, family, or other community members about their preferred local dental practice. When you finally find the perfect practice, take a step towards adulthood and stay on top of your regular appointments.
For more information, contact Brandywine Dental Care.
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