Thinking back on your previous dental visits, do you remember getting the opportunity to ask many questions? Or did you spend more of your time listening to your dentist? It’s not uncommon for many patients to leave their appointment with more questions than when they arrived, but if you want to avoid this conundrum, you’ll want to make sure you speak up. To ensure you get the answers you need to take better care of your oral health, here are 4 questions you’ll need to ask when meeting with your dentist.
What can I do to improve my oral health at home?
Knowing if there are specific products, tips, or techniques you can use to improve the health of your teeth and gums is always a great question to ask. After all, your dentist is an expert in their field, so they should be able to recommend certain brands as well as offer advice on the most effective ways to brush and floss. They can also help you identify if bad habits are playing a role in your declining oral health or if nutrition might be the problem.
Are there dental health conditions I should know about?
If you are committed to maintaining optimal oral health, you should know about any problems your dentist sees during a regular appointment. Many professionals use advanced technology that allows patients to see exactly what the dentist sees during a checkup, which can be extremely helpful, especially if you have a cavity or other similar problem. But even if they do not use this type of equipment in their office, don’t be afraid to ask if they see any abnormalities or potential problems developing.
Would my smile benefit from certain dental treatments?
It’s always nice getting a good report when visiting the dentist’s office but what if you could take your smile to the next level with the help of cosmetic dentistry? Maybe there are a few stains or minor chips that could easily be addressed and improve the overall look of your smile. Asking about potential dental treatments to enhance your aesthetics will tell your dentist that you want to look your best. Depending on your needs and goals, they should be able to recommend one or more services that will address problem areas and leave you with a smile you’re eager to share with others.
What are your payment options?
This question is key if you want to make sure you can afford the type of treatment you’re about to receive. Typically, when you call to schedule an appointment, the front desk will ask you about your dental insurance. This will allow them to start the process of determining your benefits and helping you save the most money when you arrive for your visit. But if you don’t have dental insurance, make sure to find out if they offer flexible financing through a third-party or if they provide an in-house membership plan.
The next time you visit your dentist, don’t let them take control of the conversation. Take the time to ask necessary questions and get the answers you need and deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Venn Peterson attended Brigham Young University and earned a bachelor’s degree in botany/pre-dental studies. He then went on to attend the University of Washington School of Dentistry, graduating in 2000. Practicing in Lacey since 2001, he and his colleague, Dr. Spenser Cammack, who earned his dental education at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, are passionate about helping patients achieve healthy smiles. They are also dedicated to answering your questions and addressing your concerns. If you what to inquire further about your oral health and potential treatments, visit our website or call (360) 459-4420.