Practical Answers to the Top 7 General Dentistry Questions

Regardless of your age, your background, or the state of your dental health, taking care of your teeth and gums is important. Having access to affordable dental care helps you keep your natural teeth, and it can even reduce your risk of serious medical problems like heart disease. Unfortunately, 100 million people in the US neglect to visit a dentist each year. If you haven’t been to a dentist lately, you may have a few questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones:

1. How often should I See my Dentist?
Most general dentistry experts recommend seeing your dentist once or twice every year. However, if you have chronic dental disease or certain medical conditions that affect your oral health, you may need more frequent checkups.

2. How do I Find an Affordable Dental Care Provider?
Ask your family, friends, and neighbors for recommendations, or visit the ADA online and use their Find-a-Dentist tool.

3. What will Happen during my Checkup?
Your dentist will ask questions about your medical and dental history and perform a visual and manual exam of your teeth, gums, and mouth. X-rays may be taken if needed. Your provider will evaluate your overall dental health and recommend a treatment or maintenance plan. You may also receive a professional dental cleaning from a dental hygienist.

4. Do I really Need to See a Dentist when I Don’t have Symptoms?
Not all dental conditions have noticeable symptoms in the early stages when they are most treatable. It’s important to get regular affordable dental care even when your mouth feels fine. Early detection and treatment produces the best and most affordable outcomes.

5. What Signs Indicate that I Need to See a Dentist Soon?

• Tooth sensitivity
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Pain or swelling in your teeth, mouth, face, or neck
• Problems chewing or swallowing
• A history of gum disease or tooth decay
• A history of immune dysfunction, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or HIV
• Jaw pain or popping
• An unusual oral sore or painless lesion

6. What should I Look for when Choosing a Family Dental South Bend Clinic?

Seek a dentist with proper credentials, convenient hours, emergency care options, a clean office, and a caring and professional manner. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to determine that a certain dentist is within its network. Call your family dental South Bend office to verify that your dentist is a member of the ADA.

7. How is a DDS Different from a DMD?
They are identical. Both titles indicate the same level of general dentistry education, experience, and credentials.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in South Bend, call The Dental Center of Indiana today or make an appointment.