Are you unsure what you should ask when you visit the dentist? Routine dental visits are optimal times to ask your dentist questions you may have about how to improve your oral health. Even if you do not have any current dental problems, you can ask your dentist about cosmetic treatment. As your local dentist in Potsdam, NY, we want to help you know what to ask at routine visits so you utilize your time in our office.
Questions to Ask Your Dentist in Potsdam, NY
Here are some of the questions you can ask us at your next appointment:
What do my dental symptoms mean?
If you have a routine appointment or made a visit because of a dental problem, we welcome you to share any new symptoms with our team. We can perform a visual examination and take dental X-rays as needed. Then, we will begin to create a treatment plan based on your diagnosis.
How can I improve my oral hygiene routine?
We can give you tips on how to improve brushing and flossing at home to work for your specific needs. Many patients skip flossing because they don’t think it will make a difference in their oral hygiene routine. However, flossing before brushing can help combat bleeding and irritated gums. If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, chances are that you have gingivitis or gum inflammation.
Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush can also help patients prevent tooth wear. Gently brushing instead of brushing aggressively will also prevent problems like gum recession or bleeding gums.
How can I prevent gum disease?
Flossing and brushing are some of the best preventative treatments against periodontitis or gum disease. However, if you have chronic gum disease, we may recommend thorough dental cleanings that include scaling and root planing treatments.
Scaling and root planing treatments are used together to remove harmful bacteria. During scaling treatment, we remove plaque and tartar on and beneath the gums. Then, during root planing, we smooth the tooth roots to ensure that the roots are attached to the gums and free from bacteria. Then, we can apply antibiotics in the gum pockets.
What cosmetic treatments will work for me?
If you are in good oral health but are curious about cosmetic dental treatments, please ask. We offer a variety of cosmetic treatments, including teeth whitening, clear braces, tooth bonding, or dental veneers. Our team will recommend general or restorative treatments before cosmetic dental care to ensure that patients have good oral health.
Do you have any more questions about your oral health? Call Dr. Nicholas Gardner for treatment today at [new_patient_phone_span]. You can also request a dental appointment with Dr. Gardner on our website.