Sometimes, it can be a little bit difficult to convince patients that it’s worthwhile to see a dentist for a checkup. After all, if nothing is wrong with your teeth, why should you need to talk to someone who fixes them?
Part of the answer is that checkups are about more than just cleanings and x-rays. Taking care of your teeth is much easier if you understand your oral health well, and asking questions to your dentist is an excellent way to learn more. If you have a checkup soon, here are some things it might be smart to talk about.
How’s My Daily Hygiene?
The most important things you do for your oral health happen outside the dentist’s office; even if you get regular cleanings, it won’t do you much good if your daily dental hygiene is lacking.
Dentists are finely attuned to the issues people can have with their teeth, and will usually be able to tell if there’s something you aren’t doing for your smile. Asking them what seems to be wrong, and what you can do about it, is a great idea when you’re at the dentist’s office.
Could I Improve My Smile?
There are plenty of ways people can be unhappy with their smile, and if you’re like most people there are at least a few things you’d like to fix about yours. Luckily, dentists don’t just repair teeth when they’re damaged—they can also improve their appearance.
Cosmetic dentistry has plenty of ways to make a noticeable difference in the look of your teeth, so if you’ve ever been curious about it, a regular checkup is a perfectly fine time to ask them about it.
Is There Anything I Should Mention to my Primary Doctor?
Over the course of a typical checkup, your dentist won’t just look at your teeth—they’ll screen you for a range of issues. Most dentists will check your blood pressure, screen you for high blood pressure, and ask about the side effects of any medications you’re on. Depending on your situation, they may be able to catch something that you should tell your doctor about; it’s best to ask whether they found anything worth mentioning to your primary care physician.
About the Author
Dr. Luke Lumpkin believes that the core of dentistry is about boosting his patients’ confidence. He aims to make it as easy as possible for patients to get the care that they need to love their smiles, turning dentistry into something people actually look forward to. Dr. Lumpkin received his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and is a member of both the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.
If you have any questions about your next checkup, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (918) 336-6777.