During a dental checkup, you may think that your dentist is only concerned about your mouth. While this area of the body is their specialty, they are also interested in other factors of your health that could impact your smile.
In some cases, your dentist will bring up these issues during the checkup, but if they don’t, you should definitely let your dentist know so that they can help you enjoy a healthier, happier smile.
Daily Oral Care
Chances are that your dentist is going to ask you about your oral hygiene routine. Although they can see whether you have plaque on your teeth, they may ask if you brush and floss daily to determine if you’re using good techniques. If necessary, they can show you how to do it properly so that you can achieve a better clean day after day.
Recent Medical Diagnosis
Things can happen between dental visits that may affect your oral health. For instance, if you have been recently diagnosed with diabetes, digestive issues, or high blood pressure, your dentist should know about it. These and other conditions can impact your oral health and need to be shared with your dentist.
Diabetes, for example, substantially increases your risk of periodontitis, a serious oral infection that is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. Being aware of this diagnosis and how your treatment is going can help your dentist more closely monitor your mouth and prevent unnecessary loss.
Unusual Dental Symptoms
Your dentist isn’t around to see that you have an uncomfortable response to ice cream or that your gums bleed when you brush. You have to tell them about it! After discussing your symptoms and examining your mouth, they may find that you have a cavity or gum infection needing treatment or that you have enamel wear and recommend a toothpaste for sensitivity.
Jaw Pain or Headaches
As an expert in oral structures, your dentist may be able to help with more than just teeth and gums. If, for instance, you experience jaw pain or regular headaches, it could be linked to a condition called TMJ disorder. The temporomandibular joint, or the jaw joint, may be under stress, causing your pain or tension headaches. Your dentist may help with an oral appliance that alleviates some of that stress on the joint.
Sleep Trouble
Initially, you may not think your dentist can help with sleep issues, but they may play a role in improving your rest. They can screen you for sleep apnea and refer you to sleep physician for testing. If you have this condition, your dentist may be able to provide an oral appliance, opening your airway and allowing you to get deeper, more restful sleep.
Your dentist can be valuable resource in keeping not just your mouth healthy but also your entire body. During your regular appointments, make sure they are updated on these factors of your health and have more peace of mind about your smile.
About the Practice
Brooks Dental has served Winthrop families and individuals since the 1950s. With years of experience and advanced training, our team can help with complex treatment as well as regular, routine dental needs. In fact, we strongly encourage having a preventive approach and coming at least twice per year for checkups. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, contact us online or call 617-846-1811.