When visiting a dental clinic near you, we may be inclined to slightly stretch the truth when our dentist asks about how well we have been taking care of our oral health. While this might cause us to avoid some of the initial embarrassment that comes with admitting to our mistakes, your dentist will likely already know that you aren’t telling the whole truth about some of your habits. For your next visit, we encourage you to be honest with your dentist if asked about any of these six things. After all, your dentist in Millwoods will probably already have a good idea about the truth.
1. Nail Biting
Nail-biting might not seem like a harmful habit. However, doing so continuously can result in teeth that appear flatter in the front or have small chips or fractures. Letting your dentist know about this habit may help them to identify treatment to improve the aesthetic appearance of your front teeth if this is since becoming a cause for embarrassment.
2. Smoking
Smoking is one habit that you will have a hard time hiding from your dentist. The practice of smoking results in a distinct odour that can be picked up on your breath, clothes and hair. Those who are smoking habit will also notice stains on their teeth from the tobacco in cigarettes. Still, many might find it easier to stretch the truth about how often they smoke. Doing so should also be advised against. Nicotine can also stain the fingers that you use to hold a cigarette. Therefore, a quick look at your hands can reveal the truth.
Coming clean about this habit to your dentist is only to your benefit. When visiting your dental clinic in Millwoods, keep in mind a dentist will only ask these questions to get a more holistic view of your routine. In asking these questions, your dentist hopes to get enough information to make the best recommendations for treatments. They are not here to judge you or remind you of the harmful side effects of smoking.
3. You Consume Sugary Beverages Often
A dentist worried about your enamel might ask if you have a habit of drinking sugary beverages like juice or pop or how often you do so. If asked, your dentist has likely already noticed that your enamel has become worn down or that your teeth have chips or fractures. Consuming sugary beverages can also result in the yellowing of teeth and tooth sensitivity, which can be hard to hide when your dentist looks at your teeth.
4. Sucking Your Thumb As A Kid
Although you might not be in the habit of sucking your thumb anymore, it might not be the first habit you want to admit to. Unfortunately, those who sucked their thumb frequently often have an overbite or shifts in their front teeth. Letting your dentist know about this past habit can help them provide recommendations for teeth straightening treatments that can perfect your smile.
5. Flossing Regularly
One of the most common questions your dentist will ask is how often you floss or if you have been flossing at all. Those who aren’t in the habit of flossing will likely have red or inflamed gums or gums that bleed when a dental professional performs a cleaning. That said, if you really are flossing and still have these symptoms, your dentist can provide you with tips to improve your technique.
Locating a Dentist Near You
Dental Elements is a dental clinic in Millwoods specializing in quality dental care for your whole family. Our team of friendly and professional staff can help answer any questions you might have about habits impacting your oral health and help to develop a treatment plan that works for you. To learn more about our team and how we can help, we encourage you to book a consultation today! Appointments can be booked online or by calling (780) 462-8056.