Patients are encouraged to visit their dentist once every six months for routine exams and cleanings. These oral health and wellness visits are a great time to ask any questions you may have about your dental health. At Coastal Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Reichley and Dr. Sinclair are happy to help patients gain a better understanding of their dental health as well as potential treatment options. Here are three great questions to ask your dentist at your upcoming dental appointment.
How can I improve my at-home oral hygiene routine?
Your biannual dentist appointments are a great time to reevaluate your at-home oral hygiene routine. During your cleaning, ask your hygienist if they have any suggestions for improvement. They will be able to tell you where they are seeing the most plaque and tartar buildup, which indicates that these spots are not being brushed and flossed as thoroughly as the rest of your smile.
They will also be able to recommend products that have worked for other patients who have similar issues like electric toothbrushes, brands of floss, and mouthwashes that will help keep your smile clean. This honest and open feedback about your current oral hygiene routine will help you become more aware of your dental health and you will be able to make adjustments to your routine before your next dentist appointment.
What are the treatment options for my dental concerns?
Any dental concerns that you’ve experienced outside of the dentist’s office should be discussed during your appointment. Our Virginia Beach dentists offer treatment options for most dental concerns including bad breath, headaches, jaw pain, tooth pain, and more. It’s important to be honest with your dentist and let them know if you’ve experienced any pain or discomfort in your teeth, gums, jawbone, or facial muscles outside of the office.
For example, if you’ve experienced regular tension headaches, earaches, and facial muscle pain, you may have a TMJ disorder caused by underlying dental concerns. Telling your dentist about these concerns will help them come up with a treatment plan that best meets your needs. We would hate to see our patients experiencing any pain or discomfort that can be resolved if brought to our attention.
Do you have any cosmetic dentistry recommendations?
Cosmetic dentistry services are available to interested patients. Our office offers Invisalign, porcelain veneers, and teeth whitening services to patients who are looking to improve the overall appearance of their smiles. Cosmetic dentistry helps patients feel more confident about their smiles. When you feel excited to show off your smile, you are more likely to achieve your personal and professional goals.
Additionally, many patients who choose cosmetic dentistry services for themselves will experience an overall improvement to their dental health. This is because when you feel good about your smile, you are more motivated to take care of your smile, practice your oral hygiene routine every day, and attend your biannual appointments.
If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, or if you are looking for a new dentist in Virginia Beach, VA, schedule an appointment with Coastal Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry. We look forward to seeing you soon!