At your first dental visit, you will provide all the necessary medical information, but equally important is to express your concerns. Only then will your dentist be able to plan a safe dental treatment based on your needs.
Being a well-informed patient is significant for your long-term health care. Rufe Snow Dental Group has valuable advice to offer. So, use your time in the dentist’s chair and ask everything you want to know.
Express your concerns
Do not hesitate to ask about everything that worries you. Sometimes, being misinformed by the internet or friends results in wrong beliefs and expectations, which may increase your fear and anxiety about the dentist.
Ask about the duration of the treatment, the possible pain, the healing time, and when you will be able to eat and return to work. Here, you will find the most frequent questions:

1.How is my overall dental health?
It’s your dentist’s priority to explain any severe dental issues. However, you should know about lesser urgent problems and what that means for your dental health. The answers will help you better manage your dental care and what your next steps should be.
2. Can I improve my dental health?
Dentists have modern equipment to diagnose all dental problems and make recommendations to patients to help them maintain or improve their dental health.
3. What are the symptoms of gingivitis?
Gingivitis is gums’ inflammation. Its symptoms include intense red and swollen gums, which bleed easily. If not treated promptly, it may develop into periodontitis. The teeth become loose until they eventually fall.
4. Can I prevent gum disease?
Take time to talk to your dentist about how to prevent gum disease. If you know what you’re up against, you can stop many problems from becoming more severe and health-threatening.
5. What type of toothbrush and toothpaste should I use?
With so many kinds of toothbrushes and toothpaste available today, it’s best to ask your dentist what’s right for you.
6. What foods should I avoid?
Some foods can cause serious teeth problems, so it’s good to/ know what is best for your dental health. It is impossible to eliminate all harmful foods and drinks from your diet but when informed you can minimize your risk.
7. Why are my teeth sensitive?
Patients with tooth sensitivity experience pain when they consume foods and beverages that are hot or cold, sweet or acidic. The dentist can determine the cause and the treatment and suggest soothing toothpaste or fluoride treatments reduce tooth sensitivity.
8. Is mouthwash necessary?
Using mouthwash helps freshen your breath, control bacteria, and strengthen your teeth. However, ask your dentist what kind you should be using.

9. What’s the best way to whiten my teeth?
If you use an over-the-counter treatment, some kits can cause tooth sensitivity and damage. Your dentist can suggest the best teeth whitening treatment options.
10. Can whitening damage my teeth?
Whitening materials and techniques used in modern dentistry are safe and do not harm our teeth. After the treatment, dentists recommend good oral hygiene, no smoking, and avoiding food that can stain your teeth, coffee, tea, red wine, etc., to prevent teeth damage.
11. Is there anything I should discuss with my family doctor?
Various diseases, including osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and others, can cause dental problems. Talk to your dentist to learn about any symptoms you should discuss with your doctor.
12. How often should I visit my dentist?
The answer is not the same for everyone. Your dentist can answer it after your check-up and treatments. It depends on your needs, dental health, and hygiene habits. Seeing a dentist every six months is a must, even if you brush and floss your teeth daily.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends adult patients visit a dentist once or twice a year, even if their teeth are in excellent condition.
13. How can I practice the best oral hygiene at home?
All adults must engage in daily brushing and flossing using products containing fluoride.
In addition to a balanced diet, limit sugary snacks, and refrain from smoking.
14. Can I have dental treatment during pregnancy?
Studies revealed that pregnant women with gum inflammation are prone to premature labor and underweight babies. So, checking your oral health during pregnancy is required to proceed for immediate treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis.

15. What is better, a bridge, dentures, or implants?
The choice of the prosthetic work depends on your needs. In modern dentistry, there are various techniques for restoring missing teeth. An experienced and qualified dentist will offer proper guidance and information, and you can choose the ideal solution for your needs.
16. How much will my dental treatment cost?
This is a question all patients ask, as the cost may be a big concern and often deters visiting the dentist. The cost of dental procedures varies depending on the treatment, insurance coverage, location, etc. You need to know the cost before beginning any treatment. If you are on a tight budget, discuss lower-cost alternatives and financial flexibility without compromising the quality of your treatment.
17. How can I overcome my fear of dentists?
Many people experience dental anxiety. Talk about your concerns regarding treatments or procedures beforehand. It will help you overcome your fear and all that it entails.
18. Can I contact my dental clinic when it’s necessary?
Is it possible to call and ask about the course of treatment or for some advice? Is there an emergency contact number for after-office hours or public holidays? Patients feel more secure, knowing they can reach their dentist for urgent problems.

Rufe Snow Dental Group will answer all your questions and help you maintain healthy teeth for a lifetime.