10 Things to Ask on Your Next Dental Appointment

We get it, going to the dentist’s office is far from exciting. The long wait, the faint hum of drills in the background, and the thought of having someone probing around your mouth don’t make for an epic day. But like regular exercise, dental appointments are a smart investment in your long-term health. If you’re dreading your next check-up, ask these questions to make the most of your visit.

The second you step foot in your dentist’s office, you’ll be hit with a distinct aroma that can only be described as extremely clean. Now is your chance to find out the source of this unmistakable scent. Spoiler: it’s mostly coming from the chemicals your dentist uses. One in particular is eugenol. It’s made from cloves, which you can also find in many men’s deodorants and fragrances.

Sitting on a dental chair while waiting for your dentist to prepare their tools is awkward, not to mention uncomfortable. But your dental appointment doesn’t have to be all serious and technical. Break the ice by challenging them to a good ol’ pun showdown. If your dentist draws a blank, ask them about their funniest patient stories. Not only can this question make you feel more at ease, but it can also help you establish rapport with your dentist.

Dentists know the best way to brush teeth, and they’re more than happy to share their expertise. Go ahead and show them how you do it. They’ll give you pointers on the right brushing motions, how much pressure to apply, and even the angle of the brush. Additionally, you can discuss the best toothbrushes for your oral needs, especially if you have sensitive teeth or dental works like braces.

Whether you’re a twentysomething or a middle-aged man, there are always risks and concerns that can impact your oral health. That’s why you should be proactive and stay up-to-date about age-specific dental problems. Also, let your dentist know of your lifestyle, medical history, and diet so they can develop a personalized plan for healthier teeth and gums.

In a perfect world, you’d go for an in-office teeth whitening treatment every three months or get veneers to cover those yellow stains. Because who doesn’t want a megawatt smile like Jürgen Klopp’s? Luckily, there are other options that can deliver impressive results without breaking the bank. Talk to your dentist about at-home teeth whitening kits they recommend. They can also provide detailed steps and tips on how to use them correctly.

Rancid, dragon breath might just be the biggest turn-off in any social situation. To make matters worse, you can’t really smell it until someone passive-aggressively offers you gum. The good news is that preventing bad breath is well within your reach, and your dental appointment is the perfect place to start.

Believe it or not, good oral hygiene can solve most cases of bad breath, unless it’s clinical. That means you’re free to have your coffee breaks as long as you stay on top of your toothbrushing habit. Use closeup Gel Toothpaste with Antibacterial Zinc Menthol Fresh for all-day minty breath. Its purifying gel and antibacterial zinc blast away 99.9% of bacteria, protecting your teeth against cavities and gum infections.

Gum disease affects 43% of Filipinos so it’s not surprising that it’s one of the most common dental questions. Many factors can contribute to it, from poor flossing technique to nutrient deficiencies. Don’t worry, your dentist can detect abnormalities during your dental appointment. If they notice tartar buildup, they will expertly remove it with a scaler to help put an end to gingivitis.

What you eat and drink affects your oral health more than you realize. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are high in calcium, which your teeth need to rebuild and strengthen the enamel. Proteins and fibers are also essential for a healthy set of chompers. Conversely, consuming too many sugary and acidic items, like energy drinks and lemon, can put you at risk of dental caries. So ask your dentist to give you a list of food that’s bad for your teeth. You might be surprised.

Clenching your jaw every time you lift can fracture your teeth over time. And if your hobbies include high-contact sports like football and martial arts, injuries are bound to happen. Dentists are a reliable source of information for this matter. They can take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-made mouthguard, which is far more comfortable than the generic ones. You can also ask about other alternatives like occlusal splint at your next dental appointment.

Garlic for tooth pain? Oil pulling for teeth whitening? Before you try them all, check with your dentist first. They know a lot about your teeth and can provide expert insights into home care practices that have little to no scientific support. After all, what works for one person might not work for another.

Your dental appointment doesn’t have to be a pain in the neck. By asking the right questions, you’ll uncover the best treatment options and make fewer trips to the dentist.