What do you need to do before going to the dentist? If you’re like me, you marathon brush your teeth for the last half hour before you leave for your cleaning appointment. Rationally I know I cannot undo any damage by brushing my teeth maniacally before I leave for my appointment. Slow and steady wins the race if you know what I’m saying? I mean I know I need to brush and floss at least twice daily but something makes me feel better if I show up for my appointment with ridiculously squeaky clean teeth just in time to have them cleaned.
You know that moment in your appointment when your hygienist asks you if you’ve been flossing regularly. Do you confidently answer yes because you do actually floss twice per day? Or do you timidly say yes and hope she won’t judge you for lying? Let me break it to you, your hygienist probably can guess how well and how often you floss by looking at the health of your gums. Moral of the story here folks is to just be honest. If you really dislike flossing and you avoid it like the plague, tell her! She can offer some alternatives to traditional floss that might interest you. There are a variety articles online as well that can help you find a flossing technique or product that’s right for you and your pearly whites.
So, what do you need to do before you visit the dentist? What you need to do is the same thing you should be doing all year round, as a daily habit. This includes brushing and flossing at least twice daily. Oh, and did you know you need to brush for at least two minutes? Time yourself and see if you’re even close, you may be surprised! Time your kids, too. There’s a great website full of games and helpful information to motivate your kids to be sure to brush for two minutes, twice per day.
So you’ve made your next cleaning and checkup appointment at your dentist office. What else can you do before your visit? Take stock of your oral care supplies. How does your toothbrush look? It’s important to replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles are flattened or frayed. One bonus to your visit to the dentist? A new toothbrush! Don’t you just love getting a goodie bag at the dentist office? Doesn’t matter how old you are, it feels like a prize and boy do I love me a free sample! Bring on the toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, whatever you’ve got, I’ll take!
The most important thing you can do before you visit the dentist is take a minute to think about anything you’d like to discuss with your hygienist or dentist. Do you have any questions about the health of your smile? Is there anything you’d like to improve or change? Just like any good relationship, communication is key! So speak up if there’s something you’d like to discuss with your dentist.