Ask Your Dentist the Right Questions
It’s true that some people dread going to the dentist, but establishing a strong relationship with your dentist can help you derive the most benefits from each dental visit and could even make dental visits something you can look forward to. It’s important to listen to the recommendations and guidance your dentist and dental hygienist provide, and it can be even more helpful if you go to your dental visits with some questions noted in advance. Of course, you may already have questions, whether you’re looking for insights into your oral hygiene habits or if you have a more specific concern. As you consider the breadth of ways your dental team can help you, however, it can also be beneficial to have some broader questions in mind. Below is a list of common guidelines that might help you brainstorm about your own questions.
- Are you experiencing any pain, sensitivity, or discomfort? Or have you noticed anything different about any of your teeth? Ask about these concerns, no matter how insignificant you may think they are. In some cases, these issues can indicate a larger issue, and early detection, followed by a comprehensive treatment plan, can help eliminate symptoms and prevent the issue from worsening.
- Don’t be afraid to ask about your oral health, even if you don’t have any broader concerns. Sometimes, it’s helpful to learn about the “big picture” so that you can have a broader understanding of the importance of your actions and choices. In short, understanding what contributes to oral health, and what can compromise it, can help you develop solid habits and make good choices about your own oral health. You can also ask if you’re brushing and flossing properly, whether your gums look healthy or not, and if there are any teeth or areas of the mouth that deserve special attention.
- Ask how you can prevent gum disease. Nearly half of all adults in the US have some form of gum disease, which is easily treated when intercepted early. When left untreated, however, gum disease can wreak havoc on the oral health, leading to tooth loss and compromising the oral health. Your dentist can review your risk factors for gum disease and provide tailored guidelines to help you avoid this destructive condition.
- Ask for product recommendations, like which floss, toothpaste, or toothbrush is best for you. For example, if your dentist tells you that you’re brushing your teeth too aggressively, potentially damaging the gum tissue, they may recommend an electric toothbrush, or they may recommend modified brushing techniques. Ask if they recommend mouthwash, and if so, what type. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, they can recommend an appropriate toothpaste, and they can even teach you how to brush and floss properly.
- Learn more about foods and habits that can damage your teeth. Dentists can recommend dietary plans, and they can also suggest behavior modification steps to help reduce your risk of gum disease. For example, if you smoke, your risk of gum disease increases, and your dentist may be able to help you quit.
- If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, ask about whitening options and methods. Some home whitening kits can damage the teeth, and your dentist can recommend options that help whiten the teeth without damaging them. They may also recommend clinical whitening treatments or other cosmetic dental treatments.
- Certain oral health issues can indicate larger health concerns, including osteoporosis, vitamin deficiencies, and heart disease, to name a few. Ask your dentist if there are evident concerns that you should bring up with your primary care doctor, and keep in mind that treating these underlying concerns could improve the condition of your teeth and gums while also improving your overall health and quality of life.
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