The job of a dentist isn't always one of the easiest in the world, but there are some things you can do to make it go a little more smoothly. If you'd like to get more value out of visiting a dental office, you can benefit from handling these three things in a different manner.

Transferring Records

The ability to move dental records around, such as when you relocate to a new city, is simpler than it has ever been before. The best way to handle the task is to ask someone at the dental office you previously went to for digital copies of your records. Be aware that transferring them directly to another practice may require you to sign off on a few details due to HIPPA laws covering medical privacy. Still, it's a lot easier than in the days when everything had to be transferred by hand.

With your records in hand, your new dentist will have a leg up on providing care. You should be aware, however, that if it has been a long time since your last visit that you may need to undergo new X-rays simply to establish the current condition of your mouth and teeth.

Make Friends with the Hygienist

A dental office is more than just a place where a dentist does work. It's a collection of people who are ready to help you do everything possible to make the most of your smile.

The one person in the office who can be more valuable to you than the dentist, if you follow their advice and maintain a regular checkup schedule, is the hygienist. In addition to providing teeth cleanings, the hygienist is frequently the person who supplies the most advice to patients, too. This can include addressing basic questions about toothbrushes, toothpastes and flosses. The hygienist is also the most likely person to provide a contrary opinion about a treatment plan or provide you with alternatives to try before pursuing a more severe option, like tooth removal.

Be an Active Contributor

When working with any medical profession, you often will never get more out of the experience than you put into it. If you're worried about a specific issue, such as oral cancer risks, it's a good idea to draw the attention of the dentist to your concerns. Doctors will do their best for patients, but the best diagnostic tool in the business will always be you.