Developing a relationship with your dentist can help make your dental visits and treatments more comfortable. Communication builds trust and rapport between you and your dentist. Asking your dentist questions can help you understand their approach to dental treatment and make more informed decisions about your dental health.
Here are 5 questions you should ask your dentist:
1. How long have you been in practice and what areas do you specialize in?
Most dentists are general practitioners and they take care of almost everything from basic dental hygiene and fillings to more complex treatment such as root canals, implants, and dentures. However, if you are seeing a general practitioner, he/she may focus their continuing education on a specific treatment (cosmetic dentistry, veneers, Invisalign, etc). Asking your dentist about his/her background can help you feel more at ease with the treatment recommendations. Simply knowing that your dentist has numerous years of experience treating patients just like you is comforting. If you're seeing a specialist who focuses on only one aspect of dentistry, it is still pertinent to ask about the depth of the dentist's experience.
Dental Grants of Canada partners with well established dental practitioners to ensure you receive excellent care.
2. What new technologies or techniques do you use?
There have been several advancements in dental technology in recent years. Many of these technologies and techniques are focused on improving patient comfort and reducing chair time. For instance, digital x-rays not only have 70% lower radiation, but they are also better for the early detection of cavities. 3D scanners allow dentists to create digital models of the teeth with minimal patient discomfort; these models are necessary for those considering implants, crown, dentures, and braces. If you are apprehensive about a specific procedure, you may change your mind because of how the techniques have evolved.
3. What is causing or contributing to my dental problems?
Are you suffering from tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, or a dental infection? Do you have missing teeth? Dental issues can occur even when you are doing your best to take care of your teeth. Ask the dentist why you are experiencing these issues. For example, a misaligned bite can lead to chipped or cracked teeth over time. Your dentist may recommend resorting or replacing the damaged teeth and may even discuss orthodontics. However, if you do not understand the root cause of your problems, then the recommendations your dentist suggests are less likely to make sense. Asking questions during your examination can help you understand your dental needs and make informed decisions about your health.
4. How can I prevent future dental issues?
Dental problems tend to progress silently and unnoticed to the naked eye. By the time you begin to experience discomfort, the issue may have progressed dramatically. Modern dentistry is based on prevention and being proactive. Ask your dentist about how you can prevent future problems and implement his/her suggestions. You may need more frequent dental hygiene appointments or instructions on additional home care.
5. Do you offer sedation for patients with anxiety or phobias?
Many Canadians avoid going to the dentist or dread dental treatment because of their anxiety and phobia. Luckily, there are many options available to help calm your nerves and make your dental treatment more comfortable. Speaking with your dentist ahead of time about your fear and anxiety allows the dentist to plan accordingly. The dentist can present you with different options for sedation such as nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or general anesthesia. When you do ask your dentist about sedation, be sure to ask about additional fees.
Are there any other questions you think are important to ask the dentist?
Dental Grants of Canada provides you with the opportunity to pay less for dental treatment. Our Grants cover from 21 to 30% of your dental procedure including implants, dentures, braces, and cosmetic dentistry. Apply for your Grant today!
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