Dental checkups should be a part of your yearly health routine. These appointments help our Woolgoolga dentist determine the state of your oral health, but that’s not all. Regular dental checkups give you time to ask our team important questions about your dental health.
If you want to speak with our knowledgeable team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre now, then send us a quick message online. In the meantime, let our team of dental professionals address some little-known questions that you should be asking at every dental checkup.
1. How can I avoid gum disease?
Experts estimate that approximately half of all adults have some form of periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). This progressive disease destroys gum tissue, which leads to tooth loss and jawbone recession.
So, when patients ask us how to avoid gum disease, we always tell them:
- Brush after every meal or at least twice a day
- Floss daily
- Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash
- Drink plenty of water
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Schedule dental checkups and cleanings at least every six months
2. Am I using the right toothpaste and toothbrush?
Using the right oral hygiene products can make a world of difference in your oral health. For example, using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away tooth enamel. Similarly, whitening toothpastes can cause minor tooth sensitivity. That’s why it’s important to ask our team for help finding the right products for you.
We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush (preferably electric!) and non-abrasive toothpaste. These products will preserve tooth enamel while removing harmful plaque buildup on the teeth.
Need recommendations for particular oral hygiene products? No problem! We’ll gladly help you explore your options.
3. Could my diet be affecting my oral health?
Our diets play a major role in our overall health, including our oral health. Discussing your diet with our dental team could help you limit damaging behaviors and problematic foods that affect your mouth and body.
Here are some foods and drinks that our Woolgoolga dentist recommends avoiding if you want to preserve the health and appearance of your teeth and gums:
- Sugary foods and drinks
- Carbonated beverages
- Overly acidic foods and drinks (like sour candies and lemonade)
- Highly pigmented foods and drinks (like red wine, coffee, and tea)
- Tobacco products
- Alcohol
As with most things in life, moderation is key. So, while sweets and sodas are fine every once in a while, patients should still strive to drink plenty of water and eat nutrient-dense foods every day.
4. Am I grinding my teeth at night?
Many of us unknowingly grind our teeth while we sleep. But, this unconscious behavior can have catastrophic effects on our dental health. Fortunately, our team is specially trained to detect signs of grinding or clenching (also known as bruxism).
If you’re unsure if you grind your teeth at night, then let our Woolgoogla dentist know. We’ll look for signs of bruxism, as well as make suggestions on how to protect your teeth at night.
Schedule a dental checkup today!
At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we pride ourselves on educating our patients. So, if you’re ready to see how our knowledgeable team can help you get a better, brighter smile, then schedule a checkup today with our Woolgoolga dentist.
Getting started is easy–just send our team a message online to request an appointment now!
