From a very young age, we are taught to ask questions to learn more. This same curiosity should extend to your healthcare professionals, such as dentists. While you may not realize it, asking questions is essential to healthcare. Dentist visits provide an excellent opportunity to take control of your dental health and establish good oral hygiene habits that will benefit you for a lifetime. Patient education is vitally important to a healthy smile. Please continue reading to learn how to make the most of your dental visits and what questions to ask. If you have oral health concerns, it’s best to schedule an appointment with our skilled New Jersey Dental Team, who can help you maintain excellent oral health.
What are the most important questions to ask your dentist?
Dental health is closely tied to the rest of your body. As such, it’s important to discuss any concerns with your dentist. While there are numerous questions you should ask your dentist during your visit, the following cover the top dental questions that should be conveyed to get the conversation going:
- How often should I get a dental checkup?
This is an important question to ask your dentist to understand how frequently you should visit your dentist. Essentially, the lower the risk of dental problems, the longer you can wait before your next checkup. Although dental health varies from person to person, those with good oral health can probably attend only once every 12 months, but those with more problems will need checkups more often. A general rule of thumb for adult patients is to visit a dentist at least once or twice a year. Having your teeth professionally cleaned is essential to maintaining good oral health.
- How is my dental health?
It’s common for patients to have concerns about their oral health. If you have specific concerns, you should ask your dentist about them, as they can ensure that no underlying health conditions need to be treated. In most cases, your dentist will ask about your family history regarding gum disease and tooth loss to better understand your risk. You should ask your dentist if there are any indications of periodontal disease, if any of your teeth feel loose, what signs and symptoms you should look out for, and if there are any problem areas you should pay more attention to. These questions will help you understand whether you should modify your daily oral care routine as a preventative measure.
- What are the best ways to practice good oral hygiene at home?
We can all improve our oral care routine. Brushing and flossing daily are not the only ways to care for your teeth and gums. Whether switching toothbrushes or toothpaste, adding mouthwash, or adjusting your techniques, your dentist can give you advice that could make all the difference in your oral health routine.
Ultimately, there are various questions you can ask your dentist to maintain and improve your oral health. Next time you’re at the dentist, don’t hesitate to ask questions; your dentist is there to help you. At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we are prepared to offer you valuable advice so you’ll never doubt the state of your dental health.
