Often enough, it’s easy to act passively during dentist appointments. Rather than learn about your oral health, you might want to zone out and let your dentist do all the work. After all, they know more about healthy teeth and gums than you do, right? However, this attitude would likely lower the quality of your checkup. Dentists might not give you the care you need unless you address your questions and concerns. Luckily, your Harrisonburg practice can keep that from happening. Read on to learn four questions to ask during your next dental exam.
How Can I Improve My Teeth/Smile?
One of the most obvious things to ask about is how to improve your smile. After all, that topic is a dentist’s specialty!
Plus, the broadness of the question is helpful — it gives your dentist room to provide wide-ranging feedback. Whether it’s tips on preventive care or ways to whiten and brighten your teeth, they can tailor their answer to your situation. That way, you’re guaranteed a helpful response that puts you closer to better oral health.
Do I Have Dental Issues I Don’t Know About?
To know the health of your teeth, ask your dentist about dental issues you have. The question will start a conversation on your oral hygiene, providing insight into how you can improve it.
For instance, you might find out you have cavities, gum disease, or some other condition. In that case, your dentist can offer temporary relief and schedule you for treatment soon. They can also provide recommendations for helpful home practices.
What’s a Dentist-Approved Oral Hygiene Regiment?
Speaking of oral hygiene at home, that’s another thing to consider with your dentist. You may think you know how to care for teeth and gums, but there’s probably something extra you can do.
Let’s say you already brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily. Did you know you should be brushing for two minutes at a time? Or that there’s a proper flossing technique? Or that there are better and worse toothbrushes and toothpaste?
Should I Change My Diet?
Besides personal dental care, you may also need to make changes to your diet. Believe it or not, food has a significant impact on oral health. As such, ask your dentist if your current diet is good or bad for your teeth.
For example, imagine you eat a lot of sugary stuff. All that sugar puts your teeth at risk of cavities and decay. Similarly, sweet drinks like fruit juices and soda have acids that can erode tooth enamel if you’re not careful.
As you can see, mentioning questions like those above can improve your dental exam. Try bringing them up the next time you visit your local dentist!
About the Practice
Harrisonburg Family and Cosmetic Dentistry are based in Harrisonburg, VA. They provide excellent smile services for their patients as a quality dental practice. For instance, they offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry and emergency treatments when needed. Their results are further ensured by relying on the latest dental technology! For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them at their website or by phone at (540)-432-6616.