Karen suggests when calling to make an annual appointment for your care recipient, be sure to explain the special needs of your care recipient. For example, if your care recipient is wheelchair-bound, you'll want to make sure the dentist's office is wheelchair accessible. Also, schedule an appointment during your care recipient's typical best hours of the day. Let them know if your loved one is fearful or hostile and about the severity of any dementia. The dental staff is trained to work with patients with varying disabilities.
Some offices even specialize in that kind of care.
Don't schedule two appointments on the same day. And, don't bring small children. Karen encourages all family caregivers to be in the treatment room when the doctor or hygienist gives oral hygiene instructions. They can demonstrate the proper brushing techniques to use on others and show you how to remove a denture or partial and clean them. Finally, keep a positive attitude about the dentist appointment.