The most common tooth problems are cavities and gum disease. Cavity-causing bacteria can lurk in the mouth, even after brushing and flossing. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque (the sticky film that forms on your teeth) that damages the tissues around your teeth. If you’re getting regular dental care from your dentist in Kingsford, you may not think twice about these diseases. But many people don’t have dental insurance, or they can’t afford to pay for care out of pocket. Here are some tips from dentists to help you prevent tooth decay and gum disease:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, once before bedtime and once in the morning.
- Use a soft-bristled brush at least twice a week.
- Floss at least once per day, even if you brush once before bedtime. Flossing will remove plaque that’s still on your teeth after brushing.
- Rinse thoroughly after each meal or snack and drink plenty of water each day to keep your mouth clean.
Thinking of getting a teeth cleaning or teeth whitening? You’re in good company. Many people don’t know this, but you should always ask for recommendations from your dentist in Kingsford before your next visit. This is to let them know who you are, what you like, and how they can help you out. When you’re scheduled for your appointment, arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to get to the doctor’s office. It’s also a good idea to bring a friend if you’re often with the same group of people.
Get a written appointment list ahead of time
You should ensure you have a written appointment list ahead of time, so you don’t miss out on a dental appointment. If something comes up and you have to reschedule, be sure to let the doctor who sees you know so they can make any necessary adjustments to your schedule. Dental clinics are different from conventional medical practices because they typically don’t keep track of your medical records. This means you’ll have to take care of this on your own. Be sure to check out our guide on how to take care of yourself if you cannot go to the doctor.
Once you leave the dentist’s office, make sure to ask your questions and get answers
Whether you’re going to the dentist in Kingsford or not, it’s a good idea to ask as many questions as possible. You should ask your dentist in Kingsford what the typical process is for getting a tooth removed or a tooth crown made. You should also ask about any special protocols your doctor might have in place for your situation. When dental work is done, it’s your responsibility to be as accurate and up-to-date as possible. If you forget to mention a detail, say, “I forgot to mention that when I came in.” It’s better to be too honest than not enough.
You should never be afraid to ask for help. Even when you’re on your own, you should still feel comfortable asking for help if you need it. Feeling self-conscious when you’re in the doctor’s office is natural, but you should still be willing to ask for help. It’s also a good idea to get to know your patient care assistant (PCA) well. Make sure they know about your dental conditions, habits, and preferences. This way, if you ever need to bring up a problem, you won’t be ashamed to do so in front of a complete stranger.
