64 percent of adults between the ages of 18 to 64 visited a dentist in the past year. Your oral hygiene is just as important as getting a physical checkup every year. Without checking your oral health, you could find yourself at risk of cavities, gingivitis, or another serious health problem.
Before you head into your first appointment, it helps to have all your questions ready to go.
Here are the seven questions you should consider asking your Glendale dentist. By asking these dental questions, you’ll have peace of mind that your oral hygiene is on the right track.
Eager to maintain a beautiful, sparkling smile? Keep reading to discover the seven questions to ask a dentist during an appointment!
1. What’s Causing My Pain?
Are you noticing pain or discomfort each time you brush your teeth, floss, or chew? A cracked tooth, the wrong toothbrush, or tightly grouped teeth could all cause your pain. If you are experiencing discomfort, make sure to let your dentist know at the start of your appointment.
They’ll try to detect the problem during your routine exam.
Your dentist will likely suggest bi-annual X-rays, which will allow them to thoroughly examine your teeth. They can use these X-rays to uncover the root cause of your pain.
If you’re not scheduled for X-rays during your appointment, make sure to speak to your dentist. When do you experience the pain? How often are you in pain?
How would you rank the pain on a scale of one to 10?
Make a note of these answers before your next appointment. That way, you’re prepared when you speak with your dentist.
Sometimes, the cause of your pain isn’t obvious based on a physical exam or X-ray. Telling your dentist about your pain before your appointment will help them avoid making it worse.
Once they determine what’s causing your pain, ask for tips to avoid that main in the future. For example, they might notice you’re not flossing often enough, which is causing a plaque and tartar buildup. Without treatment, plaque and tartar can lead to gingivitis and gum disease.
Your doctor might also suggest you need an electric toothbrush. The solution will often depend on what’s causing your pain.
2. Do I Need Whitening Treatments?
Cosmetic tooth bleaching is a $3.2 billion global industry. Trying to whiten your teeth at home, however, can cause less-than-desired results. Instead of using a box kit at home, speak to your Glendale dentist about available teeth whitening treatments.
Many people are concerned about the appearance of their teeth. Coffee, wine, and certain foods can cause discoloration and stains. Ask a dentist about your options for whiter, shinier teeth.
Your dentist might have a number of different treatments available. They can evaluate your teeth and needs to provide you with the best course of action. For example, you might decide to have your dentist complete the procedure for you.
Most in-office teeth whitening procedures take about an hour.
You can also ask the dentist if they have any kits you can take home.
3. What Procedures Would Help My Teeth?
Improving your smile can make you feel more confident. Whether you want whiter or straighter teeth, your dentist can help you achieve your oral hygiene goals.
Ask the dentist about the procedures available. For example, you might feel concerned about the strength of your teeth. If so, they might recommend fluoride treatments or another procedure for tooth strength and a more resilient smile.
Fluoride treatments are usually ideal for younger children. However, adults can benefit from fluoride too. Fluoride is ideal if you have weak teeth that are at risk for cavities.
If you’re still concerned about teeth strength, consider dental crowns, bridges, or implants. Make sure to review these options with your dentist. They’ll usually choose the right procedure depending on your unique circumstances.
4. What Services Help Misalignments?
Maybe you’re more concerned about your smile’s aesthetics than your teeth strength. If so, ask a dentist about your options for improving crooked teeth. These procedures can help boost your confidence and self-image.
Your Glendale dentist might suggest clear braces, Invisalign aligners, or another alignment procedure.
These options can help straighten your teeth. The gaps between your teeth can make you more susceptible to bacteria, which can contribute to gingivitis. Closing these gaps can help reduce your risk of gum infection.
5. Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?
Do your teeth feel sensitive and inflamed when you brush or floss? Make sure to talk to your dentist about sensitivity issues. Many of these problems are caused by poor dental hygiene.
Tooth sensitivity is also caused by dental decay or cracks in your teeth. If you’re taking medications, let your dentist know. Certain medications can also cause tooth sensitivity.
Don’t forget to discuss your at-home oral hygiene practices with your dentist. Learning more about your habits can help your dentist determine what’s causing your sensitivity. Then, they can diagnose the problem and help you determine the best course of treatment.
6. Am I At Risk For Gingivitis?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is the 11th most prevalent disease in the world. It can cause tooth loss, which might lead you to need oral implants. Otherwise, the gap left between your teeth could cause more problems for your gums.
Take the time to ask your dentist about gingivitis. They can help you determine the best oral hygiene techniques for you to use at home.
In the meantime, keep a lookout for swelling, pain, bleeding, or receding gums. These symptoms could indicate a gum problem.
7. How Can I Improve My Oral Hygiene?
Before the end of your appointment, make sure to ask dental questions regarding your at-home oral hygiene routine. You should already brush and floss your teeth regularly. If you have a specific oral problem, however, your dentist can provide unique tips to help.
For example, patients with bridgework might benefit from a different flossing technique.
Ask your dentist for tips to help you avoid developing problems in the future.
Brush Up Beforehand: Seven Questions To Ask Your Glendale Dentist
Brush up on this guide before your next appointment! Then, you can speak to your Glendale dentist about your oral hygiene concerns.
Ready to speak with the dentist? Contact us today to book your next appointment.