From a very early age, we’re encouraged to ask questions; yet when we visit the dentist, many of us simply undergo the check-up and leave, hoping that everything is going to be okay for the next 6 months or so, until the next visit.
Instead, wouldn’t it be better to take full advantage of your time at the dentist and play a more active role in your dental health? Why not use this time to run a few questions by your dentist.
Asking the right questions can give you a better understanding of what you need to do to improve your long-term health care.
Most dentists will be pleased that you are taking a vested interest in your oral health and will be only too happy to impart those pearls of wisdom and advice you want to know.
With this in mind, here are the top 5 questions to ask your dentist during a dental examination.
How do I better manage my dental health?
During a routine check-up, your dentist should be looking for areas of concern that you may need to work on. After any check-up they should give you a summary of your present oral health as standard, but why not ask them what you can do to improve it. Questions like
- Am I brushing correctly?
- Is the toothbrush I’m using the best choice for my teeth?
- Is there anything I should be keeping an eye on?
Are all relevant queries you should be asking.
Is there anything I need to talk to my GP about?
Here at 44 Dental Care we often tell patients that the condition of their mouth is a window to their overall health. As an example, certain changes in the mouth can be a sign that you have
- Osteoporosis
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Diabetes
So if your dentist notices any unusual conditions, it could be a sign that you may need to talk to your GP.
How can I improve the whiteness of my teeth?
Among some of the best questions to ask a dentist is how you go about improving the whiteness of your teeth. Most people experience some type of discolouration over the years, usually caused by pigmented foods and drinks. Your dentist may make suggestions like
- Where possible, drink teeth-staining beverages like Coca Cola through a straw
- Sip a glass of water to rinse the teeth after drinking a cup of coffee
- Try to brush teeth after every meal to prevent excessive staining
You might also want to consider undertaking professional chairside or take-home teeth whitening to keep your teeth looking bright and white.
What are the warning signs of gum disease I need to look out for?
According to the NHS website, most adults have gum disease in one form or another at some point in their lives. While mild forms of gum disease such as gingivitis typically cause little or no discomfort, it pays to recognise the early signs.
Of course, your dentist will check for any signs of gum disease during your dental examination, but it helps to know what you should be looking out for. This way if you do have a problem, you can take the appropriate steps before it escalates into something more serious.
What foods are good and bad for my teeth?
The final question to ask your dentist during your check-up is what foods are good and bad for your teeth. While it’s pretty well known that the type of foods we eat affect our overall health, what you may not know is that the same goes for our teeth.
Generally speaking, a diet rich in protein, leafy greens, and whole fruits is good for your dental health, whereas, acidic, sticky, and sugary foods can cause harm. Together with your dentist, you can discuss what food choices may or may not be damaging your teeth and gums.
Here at 44 Dental Care, we want to help you to take better care of your teeth. As such we’re very happy to pass on any knowledge that we have to help you take better care of your teeth. So if you have any concerns or questions to ask our dentist during your dental examination, feel free to express them.
We’re committed to your comfort and satisfaction and during your dental check-up and do all that we can to help you feel relaxed. Call today on 0116 251 9647 to book your appointment. On behalf of the team, we look forward to meeting you.
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