Tips For Your Next Dental Visit
Whether you’re going to the dentist or a general practitioner, asking your doctor questions is extremely important in helping you stay healthy. Especially if you’re coming up on your first dental appointment in several years, asking questions about the best way to care for your teeth is crucial. Here are a few things to consider bringing up to either your doctor or hygienist during your next office visit.
Past Medical History
Letting your doctor know about any family history of oral cancer is vital. Often times, you dentist may not perform as comprehensive of an exam of your gums and jaw during a regular cleaning appointment. If you or your relatives are prone to these types of illnesses, alerting your doctor will allow them to do a more extensive search for infections or abnormalities in your mouth. Do research beforehand to see if your doctor has the latest in oral cancer detection technology so that you can feel as safe as possible after your visit.
Ask About X-Rays
Depending on your current dental concerns as well as your medical history, whether or not you need regular X-Rays can vary. Having them once a year or at least bi-annually is recommended even if you’ve always had healthy teeth and gums. Furthermore, it’s also a good idea to ask your dentist if the office uses digital or film X-Rays. While film X-Rays have been used for many years, many offices are switching to digital, as it gives off significantly less radiation. Particularly if you are a patient who needs frequent X-Rays, making sure that your doctor uses digital may be better for your body long term.
Tips and Tricks
Dentists and hygienists have seen many different cases throughout their careers, so they’ll often have great advice on the best ways to take care of your smile. If you’re struggling with keeping up with a certain aspect of your dental hygiene routine, let them know! They’ll be able to offer tips on the best way to keep your teeth strong and healthy in between regular cleanings. You should never feel embarrassed or ashamed about any concerns you’re having, as good oral health is an essential part of overall health.
Call us today at (973) 450-0511 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Flynn-Nyktas, your top dentist in Belleville, NJ.