Getting Married? Add the Dentist and Doctor to Your To-do List

Planning a wedding involves lists and more lists, checking them twice, three times and more. Flowers ordered - check. Menu chosen - check. Dress altered - check. Physical scheduled - what? Why? Many brides tend to forget about scheduling medical and dental appointments until the last minute, if at all. However, you shouldn't wait, particularly if you are planning to start birth control.

Today, a bride or groom can be covered by a parent's insurance until age 26 or you may have coverage through your work. At 26, you need to either purchase your own insurance, be added to a spouse's policy, or add your spouse to your policy, all of which may incur a waiting period before becoming effective. Therefore, take advantage of existing insurance while you can.

If you plan to start birth control, you need to visit a doctor for a physical and a prescription at least three months before the wedding. Doing so allows time for the medication to become fully effective. It also allows time to change medications if you have side effects. It is not unusual to try two or three medications before finding one your body can tolerate.

If you are covered by dental or vision insurance, have your teeth cleaned and any cavities filled. Also update your eye glass and/or contacts prescription. By checking these tasks off your list several months before the wedding, you will be in great shape for the big day.