If you care about your teeth and mouth health, don’t miss dental appointments. It is recommended that you see your dentist at least twice a year for an exam and cleaning. Your visits to the dentist are an excellent time to ask questions about your oral health and find solutions for dental issues that you are currently experiencing.
To make the most out of your next dental appointment, get a discussion going. Here are some ideas for questions you can ask your dentist.
#1 What is the state of my overall dental health?
You may think just because you aren’t experiencing symptoms that you do not have dental issues. Cavities that have only just begun to develop may not cause symptoms. Dentists have special tools that can detect a cavity in its early stage. By examining your teeth and mouth, your dentist can tell you the state of your dental health and let you know if everything is good. You should know that dentists can detect possible signs of oral cancer during an oral exam, too.
#2 Should I get my teeth whitened?
In-office teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure. Getting your teeth whitened can make your smile look brighter and more youthful. If you drink coffee, tea, or wine regularly, professional teeth whitening can reverse years of stains. Your dentist will help you decide on whether it is the right treatment for you.
#3 Are there procedures that help strengthen my teeth?
Enamel can wear away from acid erosion, which can be caused by a poor diet and lifestyle choices. Once the enamel has thinned, your tooth/teeth can become less resistant to cavity-causing bacteria and can even make them more sensitive. Dental procedures that can help re-mineralize teeth include fluoride treatments and dental sealants.
Some people are just prone to having weak teeth due to genetics. Dentists can provide solutions for this problem. Dental crowns, porcelain veneers, and dental bonding are just some of the procedures that help address a weakness of the teeth.
#4 Am I at risk for gum disease?
Poor oral hygiene, poor nutrition, smoking, diabetes, certain medication, and teeth grinding and clenching can put you at increased risk of gum disease. A dentist can determine your risk factor and provide recommendations to reduce your risk for gum disease. If you grind or clench your teeth, a dentist can provide a mouth guard to create a barrier between the upper and lower teeth.
#5 How do I improve my oral hygiene?
Dentists love it when their patients want to become proactive about improving oral hygiene. While brushing teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash are the basics, you may have special needs due to dental work. Your dentist can teach you how to improve your brushing and flossing technique and recommend dental care products such as special kinds of toothpaste and smart toothbrushes that can help maintain teeth and mouth health.
Dentist in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
Dr. Steve Hagerman is a family dentist in Minneapolis-St. Paul who can provide for the dental needs of the entire family. Dr. Hagerman takes his time with each patient and answers questions they may have about oral health. Dr. Hagerman provides personalized care and individualized treatment plans, because no two patients have identical needs.
If you want compassionate dental care from a dental expert, choose Dr. Hagerman. To schedule an appointment, call our dental office today at (651) 646-2392 or use our convenient appointment request form.