Key things to tell your dentist during a routine check-up

Key things to tell your dentist during a routine check-up

What our Chatham dentists need to know

Did you know there are a few key things you should always share with your dentist during a routine check-up?

Being open and honest about your health, habits and concerns can help our Chatham dentists provide you with the best possible care. Let’s take a look at what you should mention during your next visit.

If you are pregnant

Pregnancy affects every part of your body – and your smile is no exception. Hormonal changes can make your gums more sensitive, leading to a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis. This can cause swelling, tenderness and bleeding. There’s also a link between gum disease and an increased risk of premature birth, so it’s really important we know if you’re expecting.

Tell our Chatham dentists how far along you are, any symptoms you’ve noticed and if you’re taking any pregnancy-safe medications or supplements. We can tailor your dental care to ensure that both you and your baby remain healthy.

If you’ve been having pain or bleeding

Pain isn’t something to just brush off. If you’re experiencing a sharp twinge when you sip something cold or a dull ache that has been lingering for a while, our dentists need to know. Even occasional bleeding when you brush or floss can be a sign of gum disease.

Don’t wait for the pain to go away on its own. Tell us exactly what you’re feeling and when it started. This will help us figure out what’s going on and stop any small problems from developing into bigger ones.

Things you don’t like about your smile

Your routine check-up isn’t just about keeping your teeth healthy, it’s also a great time to talk about how you feel about your smile. If there’s something that’s been bothering you, such as staining or a crooked tooth, let us know.

We’re here to listen, not judge. There are plenty of options for improving your smile, from teeth whitening to Invisalign. The first step is simply starting the conversation.

Any new medication or diagnoses

Any new health conditions or medications can have an impact on your smile. Certain medications, like antidepressants or blood pressure tablets, can cause dry mouth, which increases your risk of cavities.

If you’ve recently started a new prescription, been diagnosed with a condition or even stopped taking medication, talk to our dentists. This helps us spot potential side effects and adjust your care accordingly.

If you grind your teeth or have jaw pain

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is more common than you might think, especially if you’re stressed. Bruxism can wear down your teeth, cause jaw pain and even lead to headaches.

Often, people grind their teeth in their sleep and don’t even realise it’s happening. If you’ve noticed a sore jaw in the morning or a partner has mentioned hearing you grind at night, tell us. We can suggest solutions, like a custom mouthguard, to protect your teeth.

Changes in your diet or lifestyle

Your lifestyle plays a big part in your oral health. Have you taken up a new diet, like cutting out sugar or going vegan? Started drinking more coffee or red wine?

These choices can affect your teeth, from increased staining to changes in your gum health. It’s not about passing judgment – it’s about helping you adjust your dental routine to suit your lifestyle.

Any dental anxiety

If you feel anxious about attending your dental check-ups, you’re not alone. It’s something we hear a lot and we’re here to help. Letting us know about your nerves means we can make your visit as comfortable as possible, whether you need us to take things slow or explain each step. The more we understand how you feel, the better we can support you.

Let’s keep the conversation going

Being open with our dentists about any changes or worries helps us to give you the best care possible. Our friendly team is always ready to listen and offer advice tailored to you.

If it’s been a while since your last check-up or you have something on your mind about your smile, don’t put it off. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment.