October is National Dental Hygiene Month, which means it’s the perfect time to brush up on your oral care and make sure you’re keeping your teeth healthy. When you schedule a dentist appointment, come prepared with questions about your daily routine and long-term needs. Here are some ideas of what to ask the hygienist before your biannual cleaning.

What to Ask the Hygienist at Your Dental Checkup

How is teeth cleaning different from brushing?

Dentists usually recommend coming in for a teeth cleaning and exam every six months. So what makes a dentist’s cleaning different from your own? Dental hygienists use specialized equipment, including a hook-like tool called a scaler, professional-grade toothpaste, and polishers to thoroughly remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar. 

It takes more time and training to achieve a professional clean. Additionally, this procedure is essential for getting rid of tartar, which is hardened plaque that a toothbrush isn't able to remove.

Why are my teeth sensitive?

If your teeth hurt when you have hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages, the sensitivity could stem from many issues. The most common culprit is the erosion of enamel, the protective outer coating of your teeth. Consuming too many highly acidic products, such as soft drinks and juice, can wear away enamel and leave the tooth’s sensitive pulp and dentin exposed. Sensitivity can also be due to teeth grinding, receding gums, and tooth decay.

What causes my gums to bleed?

If your gums bleed when you floss or brush your teeth, your dental hygienist will likely notice during your routine cleaning. Easily bleeding gums is usually caused by gingivitis, the inflammation of the gums due to an infection. 

If left untreated, gingivitis can become periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease. Injury, underlying health issues like anemia, and even brushing too hard may result in bleeding as well.

How can I make my teeth whiter?

For a brighter, cleaner smile, ask your dental hygienist about teeth whitening options in their office. Staining and discoloration can be challenging to remove with store-bought products. With professional in-office or take-home solutions, you can regain confidence in your image.

Why do I need X-rays?

Your dentist will take X-rays of your mouth at least once a year, so you might wonder how they contribute to your dental hygiene. X-rays help dentists monitor changes and detect problems that can’t always be seen from the surface, such as impacted wisdom teeth. If you need them more often, your dentist can tell you what problem areas they’re looking for.

Keep track of your dental hygiene and health with routine visits to William U. Britton, DDS, MAGD. Serving Jackson and Chillicothe, OH, for more than 35 years, Dr. Britton offers an array of essential oral health care services to patients of all ages. Their team takes pride in providing gentle, compassionate care to ease patients’ nerves and improve their dental care experiences. Learn more about their services online or call (740) 772-2225 to schedule an appointment.