At your checkups and cleanings, your dentist is usually the one asking you the questions. Maybe they want to know if any of your teeth have been bothering you lately or how often you’ve been flossing. However, these visits are also a great opportunity for you to ask some questions of your own. Your dentist is ready and willing to give you advice for taking care of your smile, and these four questions can help you take control of your dental health!
1. Do I Grind My Teeth?
Many people clench and grind their teeth, whether it’s due to stress, a misaligned bite, or a problem with the jaw joint. Chronic teeth grinding is also known as bruxism, and it can severely wear down and weaken the teeth if left untreated. Unfortunately, grinding tends to occur while sleeping, so it’s impossible to stop directly.
Your dentist can spot the signs of bruxism, such as flat, short, or “stubby” teeth. They can then prevent additional damage by giving you a nightguard. This comfortable yet durable tray creates a barrier between your upper and lower teeth as you sleep, keeping them safe from harm.
2. Am I Brushing and Flossing Correctly?
Your daily at-home oral hygiene can make a huge difference in your dental health as a whole, and your dentist would be more than happy to give you tips. For instance, they might advise you to use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer that tells you when you’ve been brushing for two full minutes. The average American only brushes for 45 seconds at a time, which means their teeth aren’t getting as clean as they should be!
Additionally, your dentist will suggest flossing at least once a day. If you’re not already in the habit of flossing, they might provide you with tips on remembering, such as setting the floss on your pillow so that you can’t go to bed without being reminded to clean between your teeth.
3. Is There Anything I Should Discuss with My Primary Care Doctor?
Oral health is directly connected to overall health. In fact, many medical conditions display signs in the mouth that your dentist can detect before you even notice anything amiss. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and vitamin deficiencies can be spotted by changes in the mouth. Ask your dentist whether they see anything concerning during their exam.
4. What Does This Sensation Mean?
If a particular tooth or part of your mouth has been causing you discomfort lately, be sure to let your dentist know about it. With that knowledge, they can pay close attention to that area as they perform their exam. Even if it’s only a mild case of sensitivity or soreness, don’t dismiss it. Dental problems are easiest to treat when caught early on, so you can never be too careful.
Ideally, you’ll be visiting your dentist for two checkups a year, so it’s in your best interest to make the most of these appointments. By asking your dentist these questions, you’ll be setting yourself up for a healthier smile in the long run.
About the Practice
The team of dentists at Thomas Family Dental Associates provides comfortable, personable dental care for families in Milton, MA as well as the nearby communities. They see patients of all ages, and they always encourage a preventive approach to oral health. If you have any questions during your checkups, they’ll be more than happy to guide you toward maintaining a healthy smile for life. You can get in touch with the practice by calling (617) 696-4800.