You may have been encouraged from a young age to ask any questions you have during a doctor’s appointment. Although it’s often overlooked, this same habit should apply when you visit your dentist. Proper dental care is vital for protecting your teeth and gums from preventable conditions, and the professionals who focus on oral health are ready to help you understand how they’ll contribute to a bright, natural smile throughout your life. Here are a few questions to ask during your next dental appointment.

What Should You Discuss With Your Dentist?

What's the overall condition of my dental health?

During a routine dental examination, your dentist will look for signs of dental health concerns such as cavities, tooth decay, swollen or reddened gums indicating gum disease, and other issues. Detecting these signs early makes the difference between ongoing issues and effective treatment. You should ask for an assessment of your overall dental health and recommended treatment for any issues detected during your checkup.

How can I whiten my teeth?

While many dentists offer professional teeth whitening treatments, they can also provide advice on quitting or abstaining from habits that can discolor your teeth. For example, they may recommend avoiding tobacco and pigmented foods that cause surface stains. In some cases, they may offer to place veneers or other prosthetics to reverse the effects of more persistent long-term discoloration.

How can you help improve my dental health?

The relationship between you and your dentist is collaborative, and while they’re trained to recognize the signs of dental health problems and cosmetic issues, they’ll need you to provide full descriptions of any concerns or habits that might affect your health and hygiene. This information is vital in helping them recommend preventive treatments and detect and treat developing issues before they worsen.

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity affects more than one in ten dental patients and causes pain or discomfort when consuming hot or cold, sugary, or acidic foods and beverages. This condition has various causes, including thinning dental enamel, chipped teeth, and receding gums. If you experience this form of discomfort, your dentist can pinpoint its origin and recommend safe dental care habits and lifestyle choices to reduce excessive sensitivity.

Maintain excellent oral health with routine services from the caring professionals at Dental Associates of Prairie du Chien, P.C., Family Dentistry Associates of Monona, and Waukon Dental. These dentists provide families with various treatments, including routine examinations, cosmetic dentistry services, and root canals. Learn more about the services offered at their three locations by visiting Dental Associates of Prairie du Chien, P.C., Family Dentistry Associates of Monona, and Waukon Dental online.