Dental visits aren’t just for cavities and teeth cleaning anymore. During a check-up, Dr. Shlafer along with your hygienist will assess the overall health of your mouth and gums. A dental check-up is an essential part of preventive care. Here are some ways to get more out of your next visit.
- Make a Checklist of Questions or Concerns —————Be prepared with questions you would like to ask. Be sure to mention any of the following problems:
Bleeding when you brush–this is a common symptom of gum disease.
Pain or sensitivity—tooth pain or unusual sensitivity when biting down or eating hot or cold foods can be a sign of a cracked tooth, broken filling, or cavity.
Sores inside your mouth that don’t heal normally–this could be a sign of oral cancer, of course early detection is crucial.
Problems with flossing or brushing–a jagged tooth or broken filling can make it difficult to floss. Arthritis or other medical conditions may make it hard to brush too. The dental team here can help you find the source of the problem and offer solutions to help.
Clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth—many people do this especially at night. Over time this will wear your teeth down, damaging enamel and making teeth more susceptible to decay.
2. Update Your Medical History———-Make sure we are aware of your complete medical history. Common problems like diabetes can affect the health of your gums and teeth. Some medical problems can lead to dry mouth, which increases your risk for cavities.
3. List All Medicines, Vitamins, and Supplements You Take——–Certain prescription drugs for allergies, high blood pressure or depression can cause dry mouth. Some medications and dietary supplements can thin your blood, increasing the risk of bleeding during dental work. It is very important for Dr. Shlafer to know all the pills you are taking, including supplements, even if you don’t consider them serious.
4. If Money is a Concern, Ask About Alternate Treatment Options—-When household budgets are strained, some people put off dental visits. That can lead to problems that are far more expensive than preventive care. Talk to Dr. Shlafer and ask if alternate treatment might be an option for you.
5. Find Out What You Can Do Better———- The field of dentistry is constantly changing. New products continue to come along to make oral hygiene easier and more effective. New research provides insights into the best ways to keep gums healthy. Ask Dr. Shlafer about anything that you could be doing to improve your oral health!
Remember, we’re here to help, so get the most our of your next visit and ask whatever questions or concerns are on your mind.
