Ask Your Dentist the Right Questions
It is very important to have good and open communication with your dentist. This can ensure you get the most out of each visit while helping you to understand your personal oral health and feel confident about the care you are receiving and the steps you are taking at home to keep your oral hygiene in great shape. By asking the right questions, you can discover all of the great advice your dentist has to offer. Below are 4 important questions to ask at your next routine check-up.
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How often should I have a routine dental checkup/teeth cleaning?
For the general population, it is recommended that one visit the dentist every 6 months for a cleaning. This allows the hygienist to remove any plaque buildup before it turns into tartar, which can only be done by a professional.
There are a few factors that might require one to visit the dentist for a cleaning more or less often.
- Age: Depending on your age, you may have to visit more or less frequently.
- Oral Health: If you have pre-existing conditions such as frequent cavities or gum disease, you may be recommended to visit more than every 6 months.
- Lifestyle: If you have high sugar intake or smoke, you might need to see the hygienist more often to maintain optimal oral health.
Your dentist will recommend a plan that is best for you.
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How is my current oral health? Do I have any problem areas?
You must receive a full overview of your teeth and gums. Your dentist can tell you about any signs of cavities that they might be seeing, or any other concerns that might not be causing you any pain. With this information, you can take precautions at home to hopefully prevent any future problems.
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What are some steps I can take at home to improve my oral hygiene routine?
Two of the basic steps for good oral hygiene are brushing and flossing. You may also be recommended to change your diet by avoiding sugary foods or drinks to help prevent cavities. Now, your dentist might have additional techniques, tools, or precautions that you might take or do to improve your routine and help prevent any problems, so it is important to ask and make a plan.
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Do I have any signs of gum disease or other oral conditions that I should be aware of?
It is important to discuss this at your cleaning because spotting these issues as early as possible can make a huge difference in how they are treated. There are even a few common symptoms that you can watch for at home that may indicate a problem.
- Bad breath: Everyone’s mouth is full of bacteria, and bacteria can smell, especially plaque. Because of this, the bacteria in a cavity can be a cause of bad breath.
- Swelling or bleeding: If your gums bleed or swell when you floss or brush can be a sign of another underlying issue.
- Loose teeth: In adults, a loose tooth is a sign of an underlying issue that needs immediate attention. If ignored, a loose tooth can lead to irreversible tooth loss, the spread of infections, bite issues, bone damage, etc.
- Tooth sensitivity: If you notice frequent sensitivity to hot or cold liquids or even a breath of cold air, this could be a symptom with a range of causes, and some need professional attention. It is important to catch these problems before they grow into bigger concerns.
Remember: Asking questions at your teeth cleaning or routine checkup will help you stay in charge of your own oral health, which can lead to positive dental habits at home, allowing yourself the best possible chance at teeth longevity for years to come. If you ever have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to ask at your next appointment or give our office a call.