Questions to Ask Your Boise Dentist

When getting preventative dentistry work done like dental cleanings or dental exams, you want to make sure you know the right questions to ask your Boise dentist. Many times, the dentist will go over their concerns with you, but you might always want to ask some additional questions just to ensure you know about your dental health.

Feel free to ask our dentist in Boise any questions or concerns you might have. Here are some of the things you want to make sure you are asking.

How Is My Overall Dental Health?

Our dentist will tell you about your dental health and if there is something you need to be doing differently. They might recommend you switch to fluoride toothpaste or they might tell you that you need to come in for extra cleanings. If you are not sure about the status of your gums or teeth, always ask.

Do I Have Any Signs of Gum Disease?

Gum disease can be serious. When caught early though, it can reversible. Make sure to ask the dentist if you have any signs of gum disease like inflammation, exposed roots, or bleeding gums. They can provide you with care tips so that you can begin cleaning your teeth better and not allow gum disease to get out of hand.

They can also show you photos of healthy gums versus how your gums might start looking when you have gum disease. This will allow you to check for signs at home so you can take charge of your dental health.

Why Do I Have Teeth Sensitivity?

Some tooth sensitivity is normal, but your teeth should not be overly sensitive when getting them cleaned, polished, or floss. Let the dentist and hygienist know if they are working in a certain sensitive area. They can check the area to ensure there are no problems. They can also be more gentle in this area so that you can have a pain-free cleaning.

Which Toothpaste is Best?

There are hundreds of different toothpastes on the market. Some might be better for you than others. If you are having issues with sensitivity, the dentist might recommend you buy a special toothpaste that can help. Some toothpaste is better for whitening and plaque removal if that is what you need.

You can also ask for advice on toothbrushes since there are so many different ones. Ask if you should be using soft or hard bristles. You can also ask them if they know which size might be best for the shape and size of your mouth.

Is Mouthwash Necessary?

Not everyone uses mouthwash. Most people can achieve optimal dental hygiene just by brushing and flossing. Some people might benefit from mouthwash as well though. If you’re having problems with bad breath or bacteria, the dentist might recommend a mouthwash to you that can help.

Make sure to use the mouthwash only as directed. The dentist might tell you if you notice mouth sores or root sensitivity to stop using the mouthwash right away. Always make sure to use a reputable brand of mouthwash that is recommended by the American Dental Association.

Can I Whiten My Teeth?

Our Boise dentist also does cosmetic dental procedures like teeth whitening. If you are not happy with the current color of your teeth, you can ask the dentist about our whitening options. Depending on the discoloration, you might need in-office procedures. If the discoloration is minimal, you might be able to get trays from us and wear them at night while you are sleeping. Each person is different, so make sure to ask the dentist for whitening recommendations.

Are There Any Foods I Should Avoid?

Most people can eat and drink whatever they want in moderation unless they have a specific dental issue. Everyone should avoid things high in sugar though especially high sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks. Avoiding high-acid food is also a good idea. If you are worried about the color of your teeth, the dentist might recommend you limit drinks like coffee and red wine. These can make stains in the teeth worse. If you are prone to cavities, the dentist might recommend you stop sugar as much as you can. Always ask the dentist if there are certain foods you should eat less of.

Should I Address Any Concerns with My Primary Doctor?

Sometimes the dentist can see something in your mouth that points to a problem or risk elsewhere in the body. For example, if the roots of your teeth are much weaker than normal, you might have a vitamin deficiency or you might be at risk of osteoporosis.

Other problems in the mouth can point to diabetes or heart disease. If the dentist mentions any specific problem to you like this, ask them if it’s serious enough to where you need to book an appointment with your family doctor or primary doctor.

How Often Should I Be Brushing and Flossing?

Most of the time, the dentist will recommend you brush twice a day and floss at least once. They might tell you something different though depending on your unique situation. Make sure you follow their advice. If you have periodontal disease, they might also advise you to come in more often than twice a year for cleaning. This is so they can clean the gums and reduce the risk of the disease becoming worse.

Do I Grind My Teeth?

The dentist can often see signs of teeth grinding. If you think you grind your teeth, ask them if they see any issues in the mouth. They might recommend you wear a mouth guard at night.

Book an Appointment with Your Boise Dentist Today

Our dentists, Jon Hastings and Caroline Irons can answer all these questions for you and more. Book an appointment with us today to get your routine cleaning or any other services you might be needing. You can reach us at 208-314-1901.