I often make appointments for our patients and they’ll ask me what they should do before their cleaning appointment to prepare for the visit. There are a few things you’ll need to get situated before you come and visit your Bright Side Dental in Livonia. First of all, do you have a change in dental insurance? Maybe you didn’t have coverage the last time you were in or your employer has changed. Be sure to let us know so that we can call on your plan for you ahead of time. Another thing to mention is any change in medical history, say for instance if you are a pregnant woman so treatment can be modified if necessary. Also please give us any updated contact information, including your address, email or phone number.
I think when patients ask what they should do before seeing the dentist they are referring to what they should with their teeth ahead of time. I, for one, am sure to brush and floss extra long the morning of my visit. But the truth is I know I can’t really erase months of bad habits in the few minutes before my visit! What we can all do before we visit Bright Side Dental in Livonia for a cleaning and checkup is what we should all be doing all year long:
#1 Brush at least twice per day for two minutes at a time. Do you think you brush for two full minutes? Use your cell phone and time yourself. I clocked in at a measly 25 seconds when I timed myself. I rush through brushing just as I rush through many tasks during the day. Slow down and spend some extra time cleaning your teeth.
#2 Floss at least twice per day. You might not love hearing this, but the truth is that flossing is a must do! It cannot be skipped. It is vital to the health of our gums. Gum disease is an infection of the bones and gums that surround our teeth and if left untreated, it can lead to bone and tooth loss. Flossing can help prevent gum disease. If you don’t like traditional floss, try an inter-dental cleaner available at any drugstore. It’s basically floss on a stick.
#3 Watch your diet. A diet full of sugary drinks and snacks can affect your smile. The sugars and acids are left to sit on your teeth and do damage between brushing. This can lead to decay. If you can’t brush after a meal or after a sugary or sticky snack, chew on sugarless gum. Yes gum! Sugarless gum can help you clean your teeth when you can’t brush. Look for sugarless gum with the American Dental Association Seal of Approval.
If it’s time for your next cleaning and checkup, call Bright Side Dental in Livonia today at 1-800-PAINLESS.