For most people, it’s recommended that you see your dentist at least twice a year. Preventive care is deeply important in order to check that you aren’t dealing with any oral health problems, and to clean your mouth in ways areas that you reach on your own with daily hygiene.
That said, if you haven’t been to the dentist’s office in a while, you might not necessarily know how to make the best use of your time with them. Here are a few things it might be smart to talk about at a checkup.
Checking On Your Dental Hygiene
For one, it’s usually a good idea to talk to your dentist about what you do in terms of dental hygiene. The most important things you can do for your teeth will happen outside the dentist’s office, but your dentist can help you to understand a little bit more about what those things might be, and what you could be missing.
Medications And Oral Health
If you’ve started any new medications since the last time you visited the dentist’s office, it may be a good idea to ask them about how those medications could be impacting your oral health. For example, some common antidepressants can cause dry mouth, which may increase your chances of developing tooth decay or gum disease.
Your doctor would be happy to talk extensively about the potential side effects of medications, but your dentist will be able to give you a unique perspective on how they could affect your oral health in particular.
Investigating Oral Pain
As adults, we live with all kinds of aches and pains that we don’t even really think about. However, since you’re meeting with your dentist, it’s a good idea to talk about them and see whether they’re indicative of a more serious oral health problem. In the best cases, your dentist may be able to help relieve you of your discomfort.
About the Practice
At Gannett Drive Dental, patients can achieve straighter smiles with Invisalign clear aligners. Dr. Gagnon and our skilled team provide customized orthodontic plans designed to deliver lasting results. With personalized care and advanced technology, our practice helps patients transform their smiles comfortably and effectively.
Call us at (207) 253-5600 or request an appointment online.