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How do you define a quality dental appointment? Is it receiving treatment to sort out a dental problem or enjoying a satisfactory patient experience or having your expectations about what constitutes good dental care exceeded? At UK Dental Specialists, we believe that it should be standard practice for you to receive all of the above and you asking questions plays a key role in a superior dental appointment experience.
Of course, you need to find the right dentist in St Albans – one who has the patience to answer questions and is a firm believer in the importance of patient education. At our dental practice, our dentist in St Albans welcomes questions from patients. We believe that it is only once you have a good understanding of why your dental health matters and your role in maintaining it, that you will make the right choices to enjoy life-long optimal oral health.
But what sort of questions does one ask during a dental appointment such as a routine dental check-up? Here are a few questions you might like to add to your list when visiting a dentist in St Albans.
Questions dentists wish patients would ask
Am I brushing my teeth correctly?
It always comes as a surprise to patients that they may be brushing their teeth incorrectly. They may be using the wrong type of toothbrush for their individual situation, they may be using too much force when brushing their teeth or they may not be brushing their teeth for long enough.
A physical examination of the teeth and gums can reveal all of these dental brushing sins. Brushing teeth twice a day will always be an essential component of a good oral hygiene routine, but it is important to do so correctly or else you can easily lay the foundations for tooth loss without being aware of it.
Are there foods that are particularly good for teeth?
It is generally a well-known fact that dentists encourage you to avoid frequent consumption of excessive sugar-rich foods and beverages, but are there foods that protect dental health? The answer is yes. It is a given that dentists, too, support eating a healthy, well-balanced diet.
A pro-dental diet features foods such as dairy (cheese, yoghurt, milk) for strengthening tooth enamel and crunchy fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots, celery) to clean tooth surfaces by removing plaque. It is also recommended that you drink plenty of water as this will help to get rid of bad bacteria from the mouth.
What are the dangers of gum disease?
Advanced gum disease is not only a serious threat to the health of your teeth and your smile but also to your heart and lungs. The bacteria that lead to the progression of gum disease have been identified in increasing the likelihood of life-threatening medical conditions. The threat of strokes, heart attacks, complications with diabetes, pneumonia and inflammatory conditions in the lungs are higher in patients with severe gum disease.
The best opportunity to learn more about your dental health and gain reliable information is on a visit to your dentist. Make sure to choose a dental practice like UK Dental Specialists who supports patient education. Call our reception desk today to schedule an appointment.