Visiting a new dentist for the first time can be a little nerve-racking, to say the least. Especially if you haven’t had a dental visit for a while, but dental visits are an essential part of life.
So, it’s a good idea that you’re going. Before you go, though, you might want to make a list of questions that you’d like to ask the dentist. Dentists expect and welcome questions, so feel free to ask away.
If you’re not sure what to ask your dentist, here are some top dentistry questions that people often ask when attending their first visit with a local dentist.
Table of Contents
- 1 What Oral Care Habits Should I Have Each Day?
- 2 What Would Cause Certain Teeth to Feel Overly Sensitive?
- 3 Can You Tell That I Grind My Teeth?
- 4 Am I at Risk for Developing Gum Disease?
- 5 Should I Consider Having My Amalgam Fillings Replaced?
- 6 What Is the Best Way to Have Whiter Teeth?
- 7 What Procedures and Services Do You Specialize In?
- 8 Ask the Dentist Any Other Questions You May Have
What Oral Care Habits Should I Have Each Day?
You probably know the basic daily habits you should do, but it never hurts to ask a dentist to explain in more detail about these things.
Your dentist will probably emphasize the importance of brushing your teeth with these principles:
- Brush for two full minutes every time you do this
- Brush twice daily
- Use a soft-bristled brush
- Use a fluoride toothpaste product
Additionally, you’ll learn more about how to floss correctly as well as why you should floss at least once a day.
Dentists also typically recommend the use of a fluoride mouth rinse before bed each night. Rinsing with a product like this helps strengthen your teeth as you sleep, as fluoride is the only known material that can rebuild existing enamel.
What Would Cause Certain Teeth to Feel Overly Sensitive?
If you ever experience sensitivity with your teeth, it might be wise to ask your dentist why this happens.
You shouldn’t experience extreme, sharp twinges of pain when you drink hot or cold beverages. If you do, though, ask your dentist why. He or she might attribute the pain you’re feeling to one of the following causes:
- Enamel erosion
- Receding gums
- Cavities in your teeth
Can You Tell That I Grind My Teeth?
Grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw are two habits that you might have while you sleep. These habits go hand in hand, yet they can cause problems with your teeth. If you grind and clench, ask your dentist to see if he or she can tell.
If you clench and grind nightly, your dentist might be able to see signs of tooth wear. If your teeth have these signs, you may need to treat the problem. Your dentist can explain the options you have for addressing these issues.
Am I at Risk for Developing Gum Disease?
If you have any concerns about the health of your gums, ask your dentist if you are at risk for developing gum disease. While people of all ages can develop this condition, it is more prevalent with older people.
Gum disease causes the gums to recede, as it is an infection in the gums. If your dentist detects it early enough, it is relatively easy to treat. If you wait too long, though, it becomes more challenging for a dentist to treat it.
One result of gum disease is a loss of teeth. When gums recede a lot, you can lose bone mass in your jaw, leaving you with loose teeth.
Replacing missing teeth with options such as dental implants is challenging to do with a person who has gum disease.
Should I Consider Having My Amalgam Fillings Replaced?
Many people who are in their 40s or older have amalgam fillings in their mouths. An amalgam filling is made of metal. If you have any of these, you will know it.
You can ask the dentist if you should consider replacing yours. Your dentist will most likely tell you that you do not need to replace them if they are not causing any problems. At some point, you can have them replaced if they bother you in any way.
What Is the Best Way to Have Whiter Teeth?
A lot of people feel dissatisfied with the color of their teeth. Is this is a problem you struggle with? If so, talk to the dentist about this issue. Ask him or her what you can do to improve the looks of your teeth.
Teeth discolor for many reasons. Here are some common ones that your dentist may explain to you:
- Age
- Smoking or use of other tobacco products
- Enamel erosion
- Medication use
- Health issues
- Lack of good oral care habits
- Consuming the wrong foods and beverages
Your dentist may try to determine the cause of your discoloration. Once this is established, he or she can provide a recommendation of what you can do to whiten your teeth.
What Procedures and Services Do You Specialize In?
Finally, you should consider asking the dentist what procedures and services he or she specializes in. Some dentists only offer general, preventative dental services. Others provide cosmetic services, and some also offer both.
Many dentists find a particular niche that they are good at and enjoy. If you ask your dentist what his or her favorite part of dentistry is, you may learn what this niche is.
Asking this question may help you get to know the dentist a little better during your first visit there.
Ask the Dentist Any Other Questions You May Have
You can ask the dentist these questions or any others you may have. Just make sure you write them down and bring them to your visit.
Dentists love answering questions and are always willing to offer tips, recommendations, and advice.
If you are interested in learning more about improving your oral care routine and health, check out our blog. We have a lot of informative articles about this subject and more!
