The Top Subjects to Discuss With Your General Dentist

When the average person visits the general dentist and is asked for questions, he or she likely pauses and cannot think of anything. This is a true shame as there are plenty of important subjects every patient should discuss with his or her general dentist at least once per year.

Below, we take a look at some of the best subjects to bring up during the next appointment with your general dentist.

How Can Teeth be Whitened

The dentist will have plenty of important insight regarding teeth whitening. Discuss everything from teeth whitening's effectiveness to safety, treatment time, cost and other options. Your dentist will inform you that teeth whitening can occur in the office or at home with a teeth whitening kit provided by the dentist. Over-the-counter teeth whitening solutions are also available.

The Use of Mouthwash

There is a good chance your dentist will have a strong opinion on the use of mouthwash as well as the frequency at which it should be used. There are cosmetic mouthwashes that freshen the breath and help whiten teeth. There are also more balanced mouthwashes that treat gingivitis and contain an abundance of fluoride to combat cavities. Some therapeutic rinses are even developed to treat inflammation and tooth sensitivity. Dentists can also help patients obtain a prescription mouthwash with chlorhexidine gluconate that eliminates bacteria that spurs bleeding, the generation of plaque and other problems.

The Best Oral Hygiene Practices

Discuss oral hygiene with your general dentist to obtain insights on everything from the best toothpaste to flossing techniques, the best order for flossing, brushing and rinsing and beyond. Your dentist will also help you obtain products that contain fluoride. He can even educate you about healthy snacking to prevent tooth decay ad gum disease.

Dental X-rays

There is a good chance your general dentist will ask to take dental x-rays. These images help the general dentist analyze and record problem spaces in as detailed of a manner as possible. The typical patient has a dental x-ray once per year. Those with a higher risk for dental caries often have dental x-rays taken every six months.

Patients Deserve to Know About Tooth Sensitivity

Those who have tooth sensitivity feel pain when eating or drinking items that are either very hot, cold, acidic or sweet. This occurs after the enamel on the teeth has thinned. The dentin and tooth pulp are exposed from the pressure provided by the high and low temperatures. The dentist will help you determine why your teeth are sensitive, identify the appropriate solution and implement it as soon as possible.

New Dental Technologies

Ask about breakthrough dental technologies that have spilled into the mainstream. Find out about the many new oral health solutions like dental implants that can transform a smile and replace missing or damaged teeth to perfection. Your general dentist will tell you all about the latest dental tech and how the practice is implementing new developments to benefit patients.