Life can be nonstop. Between family and work responsibilities—as well as fitting in time to rest and relax– it can be tough to be proactive in your oral health. If you are scheduling and attending your six-month dental checkups, you are ahead of the game in taking the necessary steps to care for your smile! However, you can take an even further step by being prepared to ask some important questions during your visit. Here are four essential questions to ask your dentist in order to keep your smile thriving.
#1. How Does My Overall Oral Health Look?
What’s the first thing you think about when getting your teeth checked at your checkup? Oftentimes, cavities are the most common thing on people’s minds. However, in addition to checking for tooth decay, your dentist is looking into many other aspects of your overall oral health. From worn-down teeth from bruxism (teeth grinding) to signs of an impacted wisdom tooth, there are a range of dental issues to be aware of. By staying up to date on the state of your mouth, you can be proactive in the recommended treatment and care of your smile.
#2. Did You Notice Any Issues that I Should Mention to My Doctor?
Your oral health can give you great insight into your overall physical health. It’s been discovered that a whopping 90% of health conditions have oral symptoms. Your dentist can help discover any signs of early health issues, such as symptoms linked to diabetes, osteoporosis, HIV, or heart disease. Once you are made aware of any concerns, you can immediately notify your general practitioner.
#3. Should I Change My Diet in Any Way?
Your daily oral health routine is essential to keep your pearly whites and gums healthy and pristine. If you are brushing twice a day and flossing at least once daily, your oral health benefits tremendously. However, what you eat on a regular basis also plays a big part in the condition of your smile. If you are experiencing tooth decay, but your dental regimen is consistent, your diet may be the culprit. Your dentist may inquire about the foods and drinks you consume regularly and ask you to limit certain items. For example, perhaps the sugary coffee beverage you drink every day will need to be just a treat to enjoy occasionally.
#4. How Often Should I Schedule a Dental Visit?
It is recommended by the American Dental Association to attend a routine dental checkup and professional cleaning every six months. While that may be sufficient in most circumstances, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on their findings. For instance, if you are in the early stages of gum disease, you may need to come again within a few months for another cleaning and periodontal therapy. Your proactive appointments will not only keep your oral health in top condition, but you will have a beautiful smile all year long!
About the Practice
Advanced Dental Concepts keeps the smiles of Portage whole, healthy, and beautiful through the expertise of its team of dentists. They offer a full range of comprehensive dentistry all under one roof, including preventive care. With the use of personalized plans and advanced dental technology, they can assist treating any oral health issues and help you achieve any of your smile goals! To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (219) 322-3418.