We all know that going to the dentist is essential for the overall health of our mouth and teeth and how important it is to keep up with visits to the dentist/hygienist every six-months. Additionally, most of us are aware of the recommendation to brush at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and to use a good dental rinse to keep bad bacteria in our mouth at bay. However, there are some things you can do to get the most out of your dental checkups. Here are the three secrets to a great dental checkup for both you and your children:
- Make a checklist of concerns or questions that you have and remember to bring it with you to the dental appointment [hint – write them in the notes section of your smartphone so you can’t forget]. If you have questions about your teeth or concerns about your children’s teeth, be sure to address them with your dentist at this time. It can be a good idea to write these concerns down as they come up, so you don’t forget to have them addressed when it comes time for your dental visit.
- Keep a file of your family’s dental histories and health histories; they may be useful or important later. Be sure to let your dentist know of any changes in your child’s medical history. Also, let your pediatric dentist know if your child is taking any new vitamins or medications. The more information your dentist has, the better he or she will be able to personalize your or your child’s care. Some medications and even supplements can affect your dental health and your dental visits, and your dentist will want to know about them. [Our orthodontists provide you with beautiful full color photographs and x-rays that will be useful for charting progress or changes in a smile during treatment].
- Ask questions. Your dentist may want to share information concerning new advances in dentistry and there may be something that is right for you. Or, perhaps there is a new product that you heard about on television or from a friend. Maybe you are having trouble getting your child on board with a consistent oral health routine at home. Perhaps your child is having trouble with bad breath, clarity of speech, or chewing with their mouth closed. Whatever it is, our professional team will be happy to address your questions and help you find the answers you are seeking.
Our dental specialists can give you good advice on how you should be helping your children care for their teeth at home as well as any other dental treatments you may be considering for yourself or your child.
We hope these tips will help you make the most of your next dental visit!
About Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, the offices of Drs. Delaney, Plunkett, Ralstrom, Makowski, Thanasas, Ker, and Associates
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan have specialized in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics since 1968. Our family-friendly office gives patients and families a more comfortable and consistent experience with dentistry from the very beginning. The pediatric dentists treat children from newborn to 18 years of age while our orthodontists provide care for both children and adults, including being an Invisalign preferred provider. The ability to treat all special needs patients reaches beyond our facility, which has treatment rooms available for children who require additional privacy. Valued hospital affiliations allow dental services to be performed at DMC Children’s Hospital and St. John’s Hospital Macomb when needed. Our specialists are also on staff at Henry Ford and Beaumont hospitals.
