Do you have a dental appointment coming up soon? While it’s natural to want to breeze through your biannual dental checkups quickly, actively participating and informing your dentist about health concerns is essential for maintaining both oral and overall health. If you want to ensure your dentist can offer the best care possible, discuss these six topics at your next dental checkup.
#1: Your Oral Care Routine
Inform your dentist about your brushing and flossing habits, as well as the type of toothpaste you use. This information will assist them in assessing your risk for oral health issues and recommending appropriate products, techniques, or areas for improvement.
#2: Overall Health Issues
Various health conditions can affect your oral health and vice versa. For instance, misaligned teeth can hinder proper chewing and digestion. Poor oral health and gum disease can elevate blood pressure and diminish medication effectiveness.
Diabetes weakens the immune system, increasing susceptibility to severe gum disease. Alerting your dentist to these health concerns enables them to take preventive measures tailored to your specific oral health risks.
#3: Bleeding or Tenderness When Flossing or Brushing
Faulty dental restorations, poorly fitting dentures, and gum disease can all cause symptoms like bleeding or tender gums. Consulting your dentist can help identify the underlying issue and prevent it from progressing.
#4: Medications and Supplements
Be sure to give your dentist a complete list of all supplements and medications you are taking. This information helps them avoid recommending treatments or aftercare that could cause complications. If any of your medications cause side effects such as dry mouth, informing your dentist enables them to take proactive steps in maintaining your oral health.
#5: Headaches, Jaw, or Neck Pain
If you experience frequent headaches, neck pain, or jaw discomfort, it’s important to inform your dentist as these could indicate temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Promptly notifying your dentist allows for early diagnosis and treatment.
#6: Recent COVID-19 Symptoms or Diagnosis
If you have recently experienced symptoms of COVID-19 or have been diagnosed with the coronavirus, it’s important to inform your dentist before your appointment. This allows them to take necessary precautions and monitor any potential impacts on your oral health. If you are still contagious or exhibiting symptoms, rescheduling your appointment helps protect your dental team and other patients from potential exposure.
Since dental checkups typically occur only twice a year, it’s crucial to maximize each appointment. Discuss your overall health issues with your dentist so they can assist you in maintaining a healthy and attractive smile that you can proudly showcase.
About the Practice
If you’re seeking to enhance your smile and regain confidence in your teeth, look no further than Complete Dental Care in Phoenix. Our practice offers a comprehensive array of cosmetic dental services designed to meet your needs. We prioritize creating a serene and welcoming environment where you can receive the exceptional care you deserve. Our team values honesty, respect, and courtesy, ensuring that every patient feels comfortable and well-informed throughout their treatment journey. For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, please visit the Complete Dental Care website or contact their office at (480) 530-0492.