Best Advice From Silver Spring Dentists On How To Get The Most Out Of Your Dental Visits, PART 1

Whether it’s been awhile since you’ve seen the dentist or you’re good about keeping those scheduled appointments, there’s always something Silver Spring residents can do to prepare for their short time in the dentist’s chair. And, as it turns out, there’s so much more to a dental check-up than getting your teeth cleaned and cavities filled! The best Silver Spring dentists take a far more holistic approach to caring for their patients, which means that they need to know a little more about your medical history and current lifestyle, which may contain risk factors for gum disease and oral cancer.

Not to fret! In this two-part article series, we will explain to you how you can best prepare for your routine check-up!

Tip # 1: Write a List of Concerns or Questions You May Have

It always happens… you end up in the doctor’s chair with a problem and forget about all the other little questions you had. Before you end up in the office of your general dentist in Silver Spring, write down a list of all the concerns or questions you may have for him or her. Consider the following:

• Have you noticed that your gums bleed when you brush your teeth? This could be a sign of gum disease, so it’s best to mention this to your dentist.

• Have you noticed any sores, funny patches or ulcers in your mouth that never seem to heal and go away? This could be an early sign of oral cancer and early detection is crucial!

• Have you experienced any tooth pain or sensitivity when you bite down and/or drink something hot or cold? This may be a sign of broken fillings, cavities, cracked teeth, erosion of your dental enamel or gum recession.

• Have you had any problems with flossing? “Sometimes, difficulty flossing - in other words the floss gets stuck between your teeth or it comes away frayed - can be a sign of a cavity or tooth decay between the teeth. Notifying us is best,” says the Silver Spring dentist.

• Do you suffer from stiffness in the jaw, chronic headaches, a popping sound when you articulate your jaw and/or a tender jaw joint? It’s possible that you are grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw when you sleep and this could be causing you temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The general dentist will be able to offer Silver Spring residents a proper diagnosis.

So, consider all of these questions and be sure to make a list!

Tip # 2: Provide Your Dentist with Your Most Recent and Up-to-date Medical History

While you’re sitting in the waiting room, why not take a moment to update your medical history? The best Silver Spring dentists take a more holistic approach to oral healthcare, which means that illnesses and diseases in other parts of the body need to be considered, as they may have an impact upon the health of your teeth and gums. Certain illnesses and medications, for example, may cause “dry mouth”, which can lead to a greater risk of gum disease. Remember, the more your dentist knows about your health, the better equipped he or she will be to provide you with the best and most personalized care.

Stay Tuned for Part 2

To read more advice about how you can get the most out of those scheduled appointments with your general dentist in Silver Spring, stay tuned for the second installment of this two-part article series.