During routine cleanings, your dental hygienist will sit down to talk with you before cleaning, flossing, and polishing your teeth to a brilliant shine. However, many patients miss this opportunity to learn more about their dental care. Here are some questions you should ask your dental hygienist during cleanings to improve your oral health.

What You Can Learn From Your Dental Hygienist

Are my medications up to date?

Certain medications can play significant roles in your dental health. For example, antihistamines can cause bad breath, while other medicines could increase bleeding or complications during procedures.

Before the appointment begins, update your medical history. Ask your hygienist which medications they have on file for you, and have them add or remove prescriptions to reflect what you're currently taking. Accurate medical charts will help the dentist prescribe proper treatments, and may help your hygienist watch out for complications.

Which areas am I missing?

Even the most avid dental patients can miss areas when they brush and floss, but it's hard to correct the problem if you don't know where you're missing. Ask your dental hygienist if they see any areas where plaque and tartar tend to build or the gums seem inflamed, so you can focus on those spaces at home.

Is this normal?

Whether you have ongoing bad breath, dry mouth, or a thickened patch of skin on one of your cheeks, asking your dental hygienist to check it out is never a bad idea. They can talk with you about what could be causing the issue, and mention it to the dentist for a more careful evaluation.

What tools should I be using?

In addition to narrowing down the right toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss, ask your dental hygienist if they have other product recommendations that could resolve your oral health issues. They may recommend using an interdental cleaner to tidy up the gum line around dental work or braces, or they may ask the dentist to prescribe a fluoride mouthwash to prevent tooth decay down the road. Be open about trying new things, and ask if they have any samples available.

If you’re due for a dental appointment, schedule with Charles P. Debbane, DDS, or Laura M. Arnold, DDS, in Hamilton, OH. Since forming this practice, these experienced family dentists have worked with their dental hygienists to offer excellent preventative care, ranging from X-rays and cleanings to topical fluoride and sealant applications. Learn more about how they can help you enjoy the best smile by visiting their website or calling (513) 887-6654.