Almost everyone has habits they’re not proud of, so it’s understandable that one might not be eager to call attention to their own unfavorable behaviors. However, not being honest with your dentist about your oral care habits may lead to a dental health issue going untreated until it causes permanent damage. Luckily, your dentist will usually be able to tell if you aren’t being upfront about your dental hygiene anyway, so there isn’t any reason to misrepresent the facts in the first place. Here are a few common untruths dentists hear and how they can see through them.
“I Floss Almost Every Day”
Flossing is equally important to brushing, and failing to do it often enough will leave telltale signs your dentist will be able to easily see. Accumulations of plaque and food debris between the teeth will be clearly visible if you aren’t flossing properly, as will inflammation or bleeding of the gums. Even if you floss immediately before your appointment, your dentist will be able to notice signs of staining and acid erosion between your teeth, which will tell them that you aren’t cleaning them sufficiently.
“I Don’t Smoke”
Tobacco is not as popular as it used to be, and people today are often not proud to admit they indulge in a smoking or chewing habit. However, your dentist will be able to notice nicotine stains on your enamel as well as the signs of your gums straining due to frequent exposure to the noxious chemicals contained in tobacco. It’s best to be honest about using this substance at your dental checkups.
“I Don’t Grind My Teeth”
Teeth grinding is a destructive habit that will wear away the enamel at the edges of the teeth, which can flatten the incisors and canines, make biting difficult, and cause toothaches, misalignments, and eventual tooth loss. The erosion this habit causes will be quite obvious to your dentist during your appointment, so there isn’t any point in denying the problem if you have it. Your dentist may be able to address this issue by recommending a customized nightguard that delivers superior protection.
Seeing your dentist is a positive step for your oral health, so there’s no reason to be embarrassed about any problems you have. Being honest with your provider will allow them to treat your teeth appropriately and help you develop better care habits for your smile.
About the Practice
Beverly Farms Dental offers the finest oral health services in Beverly. Led by Drs. Tolzmann, Cifuni, and Tsai, the staff treats each patient with exemplary compassion, the utmost courtesy, and the finest customer service in town. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To book your next checkup, contact the office online or dial (978) 927-3515.
