When we think about the issues of health and prevention, we often don’t think of our teeth. Maintaining a good oral health is an essential thing to avert any trouble in the future, such as losing teeth in midlife, icky-looking gums, chronic bad breath or even worse health conditions.
It is therefore important to ask your dentist some questions before getting your medical exams. Let us now dig into some essential questions you should ask your dentists:
What can I do to prevent cavities?
Cavities in the teeth can grow quickly if left unchecked. You should ask your dentist which tips are best for you and know the best treatment options in case you get a cavity, example; brushing with a fluoride toothpaste after eating or drinking and brushing your teeth at least twice a day and ideally after each meal will help to prevent cavities.
Why is fluoride important to my dental health?
Fluoride has a positive effect on oral health by making the teeth more resistant to decay. The fluoride can also prevent or reverse tooth decay that has started.
What can I do to improve my dental health?
Since everyone’s mouth is different, you need to do more than the general guidelines of brushing after meals and daily flossing. Your dentists can give you customized information regarding how to improve your dental health. They can advise you on whether you need to brush more often or switch to a different toothbrush or require a refresher in flossing. They will tell you whether you need to increase or decrease your fluoride intake and how often you should visit a dentist.
Is my medication affecting my oral health?
There are many medications that cause dry mouth and other conditions which affect oral health. Hence, it is important to ask your dentists regarding any medication that affects your oral health.
Do you see warning signs of a serious condition?
There is a range of health problems which starts in the mouth. Changes inside the mouth can be warning signs regarding serious conditions, including osteoporosis, vitamin deficiencies, inflamed gums can indicate diabetes. Make sure to let your dentist know which symptoms should be brought to your GP’s attention.
Nearly nine out of ten diseases can cause some symptoms in the mouth. It is therefore important to see your dentist at least twice a year for dental checkups and cleanings. It is also important to watch for new problems in your mouth, such as bleeding gums, recurring bad breath, gum, tooth or jaw pain, loose or lost teeth, sores, lumps or irregular patches in your mouth.
If you notice any of these warning signs, visit your dentist right away to diagnose the specific dental issues or he/she may refer you to another healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.
Why do I need dental X-rays?
How often you need dental X-rays depends on your oral health. A healthy adult who has not had cavities or other problems for a couple of years won’t need X-rays at each appointment, however, if your dental situation is less stable and your dentist is monitoring your progress, then you need frequent dental X-rays. You should ask your dentist why a particular X-ray is being taken.
What causes sensitive teeth?
Sensitive teeth may be caused due to the following dental issues, such as tooth decay, tooth erosion, grinding your teeth at night, gum recession, worn tooth enamel, etc.
Conclusion
You should not feel silly asking your dental professional about new products, whether they could help improve your oral health. While asking your dentist, remember to take notes of the overall mannerism of the dentist. Also, take note if you feel rushed or observe that he or she is not listening to you or responding appropriately, you should consider searching for the best dentists in your area.
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