Five Things to Tell Your Dentist Before the Checkup
Regular dental checkups are a vital part of tooth care, but if you really want to get the most out of an appointment, effective communication is vital. Here are five things you should let your dentist know at the beginning of the appointment.
Fears
Let your dentist know if you have any phobia or fear of dental treatment. Dentists are well used to this kind of reaction and will be able to accommodate your feelings better if they know about them in advance. In some cases, just discussing your feelings will make you feel better, and the dentist may be able to allay your fears just by explaining what is about to happen. They will also be able to take better care of you during the appointment itself and to help with relaxation and distraction.
Dental problems
Although the checkup should detect any problems with your teeth, there is no point in making things difficult. Let your dentist know about any pain or new sensitivity you have been experiencing, or if there are any other changes such as a lump or damage to a tooth. The better you explain your symptoms, the sooner they will be able to find the problem and find the right treatment.
Other health problems
Your teeth can have surprising relationships with other health problems. You should tell your dentist if you have been diagnosed with any new conditions, such as diabetes or asthma, or if there are any conditions that you have not mentioned before. This can help the dentist identify a specific dental problem and may also affect the type of treatment they will want to give you.
Medications
You should tell your dentist about any medication you are taking, either permanently or temporarily, and the dosages you take. This applies both to prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Again, the medications may affect the kinds of treatment that the dentist will give you.
Any questions
The dentist might be the expert, but these are your teeth, and you should make sure you understand any problems and treatment. If there is something you are not sure about, or if you do not think your dentist has explained things properly, don't be afraid to speak up.
Ultimately, your dental care is a partnership between you and your dentist, and if you want to get the most out of your checkup, the rule is simple; don't keep your mouth shut. Contact a dental clinic in your area for more information.