if I don’t write stuff down, my mind goes totally blank.
Same here. I always show up with a note on my phone, otherwise I’ll forget to ask the most basic things—like if I can still chew gum (also a no, sigh). My brain just blanks in the chair.
I totally get that panic—honestly, even after years of dental work, I still scribble down questions before every appointment. The second I’m in that chair, half my brain just checks out. Don’t beat yourself up if you forget something, though. Most orthodontists are used to it and will happily answer follow-up questions later. I’ve even called the office afterward when I remembered something important (like the whole popcorn situation...ugh). It’s just part of the process.
Honestly, I think it’s super common to forget half your questions once you’re actually sitting in that chair. I’ve been there plenty of times—my mind just goes blank, even when I’m prepared. The good thing is, most orthodontists are really understanding about it. I’ve emailed mine later with random questions (like, can I still use whitening strips?) and they never seem bothered. It’s just part of the experience, and you’re definitely not alone if you need to follow up afterward.
I totally get what you mean—my nerves always get the better of me in those consults, and I end up forgetting half my list. Even when I write things down, sometimes I just freeze. But honestly, it’s not the end of the world if you don’t ask everything right then. I’ve called my ortho’s office later with what probably seemed like silly questions (like, “Is it normal for my teeth to feel weirdly loose?”), and they were fine about it. I used to feel embarrassed, but now I think it’s just part of the process. You’re definitely not the only one who needs a follow-up or two.
I get what you mean about calling later, but honestly, I always feel super awkward doing that. Like, I know the office staff say it’s fine, but I can’t help but feel like I’m annoying them or getting judged for not remembering in the first place. For my first consult, I actually handed my list to the ortho and just asked them to walk through it with me. Felt kinda silly, but at least I didn’t have to keep calling back. Maybe it’s just me, but I’d rather get it all out there in person, even if it’s a little embarrassing.