Most people already know that they should brush and floss twice a day, but there are a few things dentists often want to tell our patients which are far lesser-known. Here are a few important dentistry FAQs to be aware of before heading into your next Charlotte dentist appointment.
It is not normal to see any amount of blood after brushing or flossing. Blood, no matter how minor, is an indication that the gums are inflamed and that the patient is experiencing mild irritation from plaque or tartar. Blood after a cleaning is only normal in the sense that the vast majority of patients experience it—but only because they are not taking adequate care of their teeth!
Slightly related to the previous point: if the last time you flossed was the last time you had a dentist appointment, you’re better off leaving your gums alone before tomorrow’s exam. Dentists can tell by your gum tissue whether you floss regularly or not, and a hasty pre-appointment flossing will only cause damage.
Most dental issues do not become painful until they have reached an extreme state of progression. For example, if one of your teeth has a hairline fracture, you may not feel anything until the fracture has split down to the tooth’s root. Many patients who come in experiencing pain expect a quick or easy fix, but the dentist is already wondering if it will necessitate a crown, implant or extraction.
Dentists often see a spike in cavities in adults aged 45-60 who have a history of good oral hygiene. The best explanation for this is increased use of medications. Many medications can reduce saliva production, which helps balance the pH of the mouth and keeps the amount of cavity-causing bacteria low. Even something as small as aspirin or ibuprofen can contribute to dental issues, so make sure to tell your dentist everything you are currently taking, including vitamins and herbal supplements.
If you’re worried about an upcoming dental appointment, it’s important to remember that your dentist has likely seen issues far worse than yours. Although we can’t read minds, of course, we’re willing to bet that your dentist is far more likely to celebrate that you are proactively taking charge of an issue, than quietly judge you for your lack of care. If not, that’s not a dentist you want treating you, anyway!
Park Cedar Dentistry is a Charlotte dentist office serving residents in Ballantyne, South Park, Concord, and beyond. To request an appointment with our office, click here.
