Suppose you are trying to find your new Beaufort dentist. After some research, you finally find the right one for you and book an appointment. But now you start wondering what your first visit will be like. You feel you don’t want to waste time or miss any important information on your first date.
Here are 5 must- ask questions you should ask your dentist on your first appointment.
1. How Often Do I Need to Have my Teeth Checked?
Your dentist will explain why regular checkups and good hygiene are so important to prevent teeth or gum problems. The American Dental Association, for example, recommends regular dental checkups to keep your mouth healthy. These regular checkups can diagnose problems promptly. This way, treatments will be much simpler and not so expensive. So even if you are not in pain or you don’t have any symptoms, be ready to have your teeth checked and cleaned on a regular basis. Of course, the frequency of your visits will depend a lot on your particular needs and dental issues, but as a general rule, you should get your teeth checked and cleaned at least every 6 months.
2. What Does a General Checkup Normally Include?
If you are a new patient, your dentist will perform a comprehensive exam to know what is going on in your mouth. Normally, a comprehensive exam will include:
– Charting of every teeth and restoration you ever had
– Comprehensive bite analysis
– Detailed gum check
– Diagnosis of possible areas of concern
– Treatment plan preparation in case dental work is necessary
3. How Do I Know Which Dental Treatment is Right for Me?
After the comprehensive exam, your dentist will probably have an answer to your areas of concern. A full exam and a revision of your medical history will help decide which way is the best to go. Treatments can vary from simple cleanings and checkups to dealing with gum disease, fixing failing restorations or cosmetic dentistry to make your smile look more beautiful. In any case, your particular needs should be a top priority for your dentist.
4. How Can I Get Safe Treatments that Are Not Harmful to my Overall Health?
Your dentist’s approach towards healthy dental practices will determine the kind of treatment you get. Ask your dentist if they consider your whole body health. Ask them if their aim is to prioritize non-toxic treatments, or if they go by practices that are mercury-free, fluoride-free or latex-free. You may also ask over safe amalgam removal following strict safety protocols. Get your dentist to tell you about treatments that are not harmful to other parts of your body. Keep in mind that minimally invasive dentistry will be the best for you and your whole body health!
5. How Can I Practice Preventive Oral Hygiene at Home?
Keeping healthy habits plays a key role in your oral health. To prevent tooth decay, gingivitis or other
problems, brushing and flossing daily is mandatory. These will keep your teeth healthy, strong and white! Also, keeping a healthy diet will help your whole body to stay strong and be less vulnerable to oral disease. If you are someone who drinks tea or coffee regularly -or if you smoke- brushing or rinsing your mouth will help reduce the regular stains caused by these substances. However, consider a healthy lifestyle if you really want to keep good oral (and whole body) care.
So don’t be afraid to ask our Ladys Island dentist everything you need to know. To get the most out of your first visit, ask about checkups and cleanings, the frequency of office visits, healthy procedures, and affordability of dental treatments. As the saying goes: Don’t ask tomorrow what you can ask today!
Looking for a Dentist Office on Ladys Island SC?
Are you interested in getting a professional dental cleaning to protect the overall health of your teeth? Contact Our Lady’s Island dentist office by calling 843-986-0177 or filling our an online request to schedule an appointment.