As you head to your dental checkup, you might imagine these visits are just about your smile. Your dentist will want to make sure your teeth and gums are strong, but there are some health factors you may have that you should bring up. This might seem odd, but it can help them personalize your care, so you can feel confident your grin is treated right. Here are three you should let your provider know.
1.) Whether You’re on a New Medication
The medication you take can help you feel better from whatever ails you, but many have dry mouth as a side effect. This makes it harder for you to produce enough saliva to wash away harmful bacteria. You may be at a higher risk of dental problems like cavities and gum disease. Simply let your dentist know about the new medicine you’re on; that way, you can learn whether it can lead to issues if you aren’t careful.
2.) Your Lifestyle Habits and Diet
There are several things you may do that can be trouble. You may grind or clench your teeth, bite your nails (or pens and ice), or use tobacco. These can turn into problems like increased enamel wear, dental emergencies, or gum disease. By talking to your dentist about your oral habits, you can learn how you can avoid them to make sure your smile stays protected.
Your diet also comes into play, as sugary and acidic foods can lead to decay over time. By letting your provider know about what you tend to indulge in, you can learn more about what options you should reach for instead that will support your mouth and body.
3.) New Systemic Health Conditions
Systemic health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, not only affect your overall well-being, but your grin as well. They can make it harder for you to get certain treatments if they are unmanaged, while also making you heal more slowly. Filling your dentist in about them can help them prepare for any complications and take steps against them.
In the end, your provider deserves to be in the loop about your health. It might be a small thing to do, but it can be what you need to personalize your oral care even further to get a stronger smile.
About the Practice
At Kingwood Family Dentistry, our team is dedicated to helping patients throughout the local community achieve their healthiest smiles. Led by Dr. Scott Mosby and Dr. Chris Caldwell, we are here to listen to you and spot any problems before they get bigger. By coming to us for your checkups and cleanings, we can tailor your treatments to ensure you get the high-quality services you deserve. If you are due for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at (281) 359-6672.