How To Get the Most Out of Your Dental Cleaning!

Dental cleanings—you’ve been attending them for your entire life, but are you really getting the most out of your visits? After all, whether you have insurance, or you pay out of pocket, your routine dental appointments do come at a cost. So, do you want to make your hard-earned dollar stretch even further? One way to do it is by spending some additional time talking to your hygienist. Keep reading to learn about a few of the questions you can ask during a routine visit to your dentist for a happy and healthy smile.

Improving Your Oral Health

After cleaning your mouth, your dental hygienist will be very familiar with your smile and the condition of your oral health. That’s why it’s a good idea to ask them about any steps you can take to improve your dental hygiene. They may recommend an electric toothbrush if you have trouble brushing, or they can offer some floss picks if you struggle to reach the back parts of your mouth. In any case, your hygienist can help you take care of your smile to keep it healthy and beautiful.

Warning Signs or Abnormalities

Have you noticed changes in your smile that your uncertain about? Ask your hygienist if they see any bumps, sores, or other issues you may have spotted at home. From there, they will be able to notify your dentist to take a closer look at the problem. In some cases, your hygienist can give you peace-of-mind if you’ve been worrying about a problem that turns out to be nothing at all!

Sensitivity and Discomfort

Do you experience sensitivity or pain when brushing/flossing? What about during your dental cleaning? If so, ask your hygienist about it! While they may not have a certain answer, they can help you describe the pain or problem you’re experiencing so your dentist can examine it. An incredibly common issue is bleeding gums, which can usually be reversed by practicing a good dental hygiene routine.

Dry Mouth or Bad Breath

If you’ve noticed that your mouth has gotten dryer, or you’re experiencing a foul taste, ask your hygienist about it! The problem could be fixed with something as simple as drinking water regularly to stimulate saliva flow. However, this issue may also be a warning sign of diabetes, gum disease, oral infection, and other health issues.

Your hygienist can be a valuable resource during your routine trips to the dentist’s office, but it’s up to you to take advantage! Remember these questions to help you get the most out of your dental appointments.