Dental appointments are an excellent opportunity to talk to your dentist about any questions or concerns you may have about your dental health or the best options for your dental care.

Here are five things to ask your dentist at your next appointment:

How is my overall oral health?

While your dentist will of course let you know if they find any issues with your dental health during your appointment, you should also ask about your overall oral health. Are there any problems or issues developing that you should be aware of? Are there things you should be doing now for better oral health in the future?

How well am I brushing and flossing?

Millions of Americans needlessly suffer from gum disease as a result of improper or insufficient brushing or flossing. Brushing technique is a very important part of proper dental care. Brushing too aggressively can cause bleeding gums and receding gums, which can lead to serious dental problems. However, brushing too softly or failing to thoroughly brush all tooth surfaces can lead to a buildup of plaque, cavities, or other issues. Improper flossing can leave food trapped between teeth, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Your dentist will be able to provide valuable insight on your current brushing and flossing technique and give valuable pointers on how to improve your technique.

Do I grind my teeth?

Many people unknowingly grind their teeth during the day while others grind their teeth in their sleep. This can cause a wide array of problems ranging from the relatively minor – sore jaw muscles or occasional headaches – to the very serious, such as persistent head or jaw pain and cracked or broken teeth. Your dentist should be able to spot signs of teeth grinding and recommend the appropriate treatment, ranging from mouthguards to Botox, that best fits your condition. If you happen to notice a grinding or popping sensation in your jaw in the morning, or suffer frequent morning headaches, make sure to discuss these issues with your dentist as they are clear indications of night-time teeth grinding.

What products or implements should I be using at home?

There is a dizzying, confusing array of products and implements available that all promise to improve your dental health, from mouth washes and rinses to special toothbrushes and flossing implements. Ask your dentist what products he can recommend for your personal dental care needs.

What can I expect from a procedure?

In addition to providing regular preventive care as part of an overall plan to maximize your dental health, your dentist will also from time to time suggest certain dental procedures for you. Some of these procedures will be merely cosmetic, while some of these will be aimed at improving or maintaining your dental health. Make sure you fully understand any procedure that your dentist proposes. As your partner in your dental health, your dentist will be happy to explain in detail any procedure and answer any questions you may have in order to make sure you are completely comfortable with any procedures that are proposed.

At Vann Family Dental, we provide comprehensive dental care for your entire family.

Whether you need a simple cleaning, or advanced care, such as a dental crown, Dr. Yakeika Vann and her staff are dedicated to providing professional, compassionate dental care for your entire family.