Dental checkups are designed to not only be a time for your dental team to clean your teeth and complete a thorough exam, but they’re also meant to serve as a valuable educational experience. While it might seem as if the dentist does most of the talking, patients like yourself should remember that questions are welcome and encouraged. When preparing for your next routine appointment, make sure to ask these three questions.
How Can I Improve My At-Home Oral Hygiene Routine?
Making sure your teeth and gums stay clean throughout the year requires a commitment to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. By asking your dentist what you can do to improve your brushing and flossing, they might suggest:
- Brushing your teeth twice each day for two full minutes.
- Flossing at least once a day before going to bed to remove bacteria from between teeth.
- Using fluoridated toothpaste.
- Eating a well-balanced diet full of leafy greens, fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and dairy.
- Reducing the amount of sugar and starches you consume.
- Quitting the use of tobacco products and reducing alcohol consumption.
What Type of Toothbrush and Toothpaste Should I Be Using?
Aggressive brushing and using the wrong type of toothbrush and toothpaste can be harmful to your teeth and gums. This is why asking your dentist about the right kind of products you should use can be beneficial in protecting your smile from further damage and any potential decay.
Depending on your oral health and what your dentist believes will serve you best, they may recommend that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Whether it is a manual or electric one is up to you, but they can explain which type of brush head to look for as well as other components that will make brushing a breeze.
The same can be said about toothpaste. Fluoridated toothpaste is always something patients should look for, as it helps to combat tooth decay. However, if you have sensitive teeth, your dentist may suggest a specialized toothpaste to help reduce any pain you might experience while brushing your teeth.
Should I Use Mouthwash?
There are many different kinds of mouthwash, so it’s important that you choose the right one. Based on the health of your smile, your dentist may suggest one that is designed to combat cavities, gingivitis, or tooth sensitivity.
The purpose behind a good mouthwash is to not only freshen your breath but also flush out any bacteria that remain after brushing and flossing. Depending on what your dentist sees when examining your smile, they will determine how often you should incorporate it into your oral hygiene routine.
Meeting with your dentist for a checkup should allow for a two-way conversation. While your dentist is there to inform and educate, they’re also there to answer any questions you have, so make sure you’re ready the next time you go for a visit.
About the Author
Dr. Monica Boehmer is a dentist in Albuquerque who cares about the health and well-being of her patients. Providing comprehensive services that are designed to meet patients’ needs, she encourages individuals to ask questions about their oral health and hygiene so that appropriate answers can be provided. Making sure you know how to care for your smile is important, so if you are curious and have any questions, contact us at (505) 271-8009 to find out how we can help.