Before you see the dentist in DuPont, you will likely spend some time with the dental hygienist. These oral health care professionals are vital to any dental practice. They are also highly educated and can answer many questions you might have regarding your oral health. Take the time to read the following suggestions in order to spur a helpful conversation with your dental hygienist.
What’s My Blood Pressure?
Although that may seem like a strange question to ask your dental hygienist, the American Dental Association now recommends blood pressure readings before every dental checkup. Chances are you see your dentist more often than you do your family physician. Therefore, it makes sense to regularly monitor your blood pressure at these twice-yearly appointments.
Is My Medical Chart Up-to-Date?
You may wonder why the dentist in DuPont would need to know about your general health. Researchers have proven that there is a close connection between oral and general health. Therefore, it is imperative for the dentist to have a list of your current medications and health conditions. Take a moment to review your medical chart with the hygienist. If any medications are missing or if there are some that you no longer take, then make the necessary updates.
How Can I Do a Better Job of Oral Hygiene at Home?
Good question! Even though you may have years of experience brushing and flossing your teeth at home, it never hurts to go over the details with your hygienist. They will tell you that using a toothbrush with soft bristles is very important in order not to scratch the enamel surface of teeth. You should also use fluoride toothpaste, which helps to strengthen teeth for the battle against tooth decay. With a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on your soft toothbrush, hold the brush at a 45-degree angle against your teeth. Then, move methodically around your mouth. Finish off by flossing in between your teeth to removed trapped particles of food and plaque accumulation.
When Should I Start Brushing My Baby’s Teeth?
The short answer to that question is now. Even before a baby has teeth, it is important to care for their oral health. All you have to do is dampen a soft cloth with warm water and gently wipe their gums after every feeding. This helps to remove the sugars that are in formula and breast milk.
Your son or daughter should see a children’s dentist in DuPont before their first birthday. This early visit gives the dentist the opportunity to evaluate the development of their smile and their bite. Regular appointments do not need to begin until your child is two or three years old.
If you have any other questions, give your dentist’s office a call. The dental hygienist or another member of the team will be glad to help.
Say Hello to Dupont Family Dentistry
At Dupont Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing all of the services our patients need to have a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile at every age. If you need to schedule a checkup or any other kind of treatment, make an appointment today with your family dentist in DuPont.