Ask Your Dentist the Right Questions
When you visit your dentist, whether for a regular checkup or a more advanced procedure, be sure you take advantage of the advice he or she has to offer. Asking questions during dental appointments is the best way for you to fully understand how to make good oral hygiene a top personal priority.
Not sure what to ask? See below for eight important questions to discuss with your dentist during your next appointment.
-
How is My Overall Dental Health?
Asking your dentist to review your overall dental health helps you better manage everyday oral care. Of course, your dentist will explain any severe issues you may have, but minor problems in your mouth are also important for you to understand.
Discuss proper brushing, how your gums look, and other areas that could become issues, such as potential for cavities, gum recession, or weak teeth that are possibly vulnerable to cracking. Leave your appointment knowing the current state of your dental health and areas to focus on before your next visit.
-
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Mild, moderate, or severe gum disease is an issue for nearly half of American adults. Gum disease is a serious oral health problem that affects your gum tissue and the bone in your jaw that supports your teeth. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, so knowing how to prevent it is essential.
Your dentist can show you examples of healthy gums versus unhealthy gums and explain your risk for gum disease based on your current dental health. It is important that you know what to look for so that something minor does not develop into a larger problem.
-
What Does This Pain, Sensation, or Discoloration Mean?
Discuss any points of concern with your dentist. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, are worried about the color or look of a tooth, or have any sort of dental pain, not paying attention to even minor warning signs can lead to more serious dental problems. Talk with your dentist about any issues you have and potential treatment options.
-
What Type of Toothbrush and Toothpaste Should I Be Using?
With the wide variety of toothbrushes on the shelf at your pharmacy or grocery store—electric, hard, and soft bristles, deep cleaning, angled heads, different bristle patterns—ask your dentist which one is best for you based on your oral health needs.
Asking about toothpaste is equally as important. For example, if you have sensitivity issues or if you want to whiten your teeth, your dentist can recommend an appropriate toothpaste.
-
What Foods Are Bad for My Teeth?
Certain foods can cause problems for your dental health. Talk about your general diet with your dentist and ask what you should pay attention to so you can minimize your risk for tooth decay.
-
Should I Use Mouthwash?
Mouthwash can be beneficial for your dental health because it helps freshen your breath, reduces bacteria that cause bad breath, and helps strengthen your teeth. Since mouthwashes vary, ask your dentist what type is right for you. Remember, mouthwash should be used as a helper. It should not replace good habits of brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day.
-
What is the Best Way to Whiten My Teeth?
If you are interested in whitening your teeth, your dentist is an excellent information source about over-the-counter teeth whiteners, possible tooth sensitivity with whitener use, and potential damage to the roots of your teeth that can be caused by some whiteners.
-
Is There Anything I Should Discuss with My Family Doctor?
The health of your teeth, gums, and mouth is oftentimes a gauge of your overall health. Dental issues can be an indicator of a range of conditions throughout your body, including vitamin deficiency, osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes. Talk to your dentist to learn about any potential oral health problems you should discuss with your regular medical provider.