Taking care of your oral health is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being. When you experience teeth issues, you need to communicate effectively with your dentist to address and resolve those problems. Effectively expressing your concerns and asking the right questions allows you to work collaboratively with your dentist to find appropriate solutions. This article will provide tips on talking to your dentist about teeth issues, as well as which information to share with your orthodontist vs dentist.

Prepare for your appointment

Always be prepared. The last thing you want to do is stare your dentist blankly in the face with no idea what you want to ask or talk about. List the specific issues or concerns you want to discuss with your dentist. Note any tooth pain, sensitivity, bite changes, jaw pain or discoloration. If you think you have a cavity, make a reminder to mention it. 

There is no shame in pulling the list up on your phone while in the office. Providing clear and concise information will help your dentist understand the nature of the problem and provide appropriate guidance or treatment. Your dentist may even be impressed with your preparation!

Be transparent

No issue is too little, no concern too trite. Remember, your dentist knows more about teeth than you do. Don’t avoid talking about a problem because you think it’s unimportant. For all you know, that minor issue could indicate a much more significant health problem. Additionally, a lack of transparency could unintentionally cause the dentist to make a recommendation that goes against the real issue.

A dentist is there to help you with your problems and answer your questions. You’re not wasting their time. It’s their job to listen to you. Don’t be afraid to bring up anything and everything regarding your oral health. Your dentist will appreciate the transparency. Attacking the issues early on may save you a lot of trouble later on.

Finally, if you feel like you can’t be open and transparent with your dentist, consider finding a new provider. Try to find a dentist with a reputation for friendly service. You should have a rapport with your dentist to the point where being open and transparent isn’t hard work.

Ask questions

You may have a pressing issue, or you may not. Questions are not limited to your current oral health issues. They could also cover basic queries, from proper brushing techniques to which oral care products can improve your oral health routine. Feel free to ask your dentist about anything that may be confusing, seek clarification on certain issues and learn more about oral health.

Discuss your goals

While they have plenty of time for your questions and concerns, dentists are busy people. They are there to look at your oral health and clean your teeth, but long-term goal planning may not be top of mind. It may fall to you to bring up any specific goals you have. Perhaps you’re interested in getting braces or want to know about the potential for clear aligners. 

If you’ve been going to your dentist for a long time and they haven’t brought up these options, it may be because there’s no huge addressable issue. Braces or aligners could be more elective than necessary. That doesn’t mean you can’t get them! Talk to your dentist about long-term goals, and they will help you develop a plan.

If necessary, mention your orthodontic care

You may be getting orthodontic care at the same time as your next dental appointment. Your dentist will consider your needs while you’re in the office, but it may be wise to discuss specifics with them. If your orthodontist has made any recent changes or recommendations, bring them up with your dentist. This information could inform how the dentist cares for your teeth during this appointment and future appointments. If you have questions about how much invisible aligners cost, your dentist may be able to help there as well.

Bottom line

Effective communication with your dentist is crucial for addressing dental problems and achieving optimal oral health. By preparing in advance, being open and honest, asking questions, discussing concerns and goals, seeking clarification and considering long-term dental care, you can foster a productive and collaborative relationship with your dentist. Remember, your dentist is there to help you!