Questions You Should Ask at Your Next Teeth Cleaning

Maintaining your oral health means more than brushing and flossing regularly. Routine professional teeth cleanings are essential, but many people don’t realize the value of asking their dentist or dental hygienist questions during these visits. 

But Dr. Patricia Swaintek-Lamb and our team at Proud to Smile Dentistry encourage you to take the opportunity to get advice customized to you and address any concerns before they become bigger problems. Not sure what to ask about at your next appointment? The following inquiries can help you gain more insight into your oral health.

How often should I schedule dental cleanings?

While the general rule for teeth cleaning is every six months, your specific situation might call for more or fewer visits. Some people, especially those with gum disease or a history of cavities, may need cleanings every three or four months to keep plaque and tartar under control. On the other hand, if your oral health is in excellent shape, your dentist might say you can stretch the time between visits.

Make sure to ask about the right schedule for you and how you can maintain healthy habits between cleanings.

What can I do to improve my at-home oral care routine?

Even with regular cleanings, your daily oral care routine plays the biggest role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Ask us if there are any areas in your mouth that need extra attention. We may notice places where plaque builds up or your brushing or flossing technique isn’t as effective.

It’s also a great time to ask about products like toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, or floss. With so many options available, getting a professional recommendation can help you choose the products that are best for your oral health needs.

Are there any signs of gum disease?

Gum disease can be sneaky. It often creeps up without making a fuss, but that doesn't mean you can’t spot the early warning signs. We’ll always watch your gums closely during your visit, but knowing what to look for at home is a game-changer.

Ever notice your gums bleeding when you brush? How about that stubborn bad breath that won’t quit? These could be your mouth's way of waving a red flag. Don’t ignore receding gums either – they're not just playing hide and seek! Let’s chat about it at your next appointment. The earlier we catch these issues, the better we can tackle them together.

Do I have any cavities or signs of tooth decay?

Cavities don’t always make themselves known right away. Often, you won’t feel any discomfort until they’ve already progressed. During your cleaning, we carefully check for early signs of decay, using tools like X-rays to get a full picture of your oral health. But if you’ve been dealing with any tooth sensitivity or mild discomfort, now is the time to speak up.

By catching these issues early, we can recommend treatments that stop small problems from turning into bigger, more painful ones.

Should I consider any additional treatments?

Routine cleanings might not be enough to maintain optimal oral health. Ask us about additional treatments, such as fluoride treatments or sealants, to see if they would benefit you. These treatments offer extra protection against cavities, especially for people prone to tooth decay.

If you have gum disease, you may need periodontal therapy. We may also recommend cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening or orthodontics to enhance your smile’s appearance.

Your dental visit is an opportunity to ask questions

Every time you sit in our chair, it’s an opportunity to boost your dental IQ. We love answering your questions and helping you become a pro at keeping your smile healthy between visits. So don’t be shy – speak up and let’s work together to keep your teeth happy.

Ready to show off those pearly whites? Call or click online to schedule a visit at Proud to Smile Dentistry in Bernardsville, New Jersey, to get your next teeth cleaning on the calendar.