Checklist for Visiting Your Dentist

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When you leave a dentist appointment, do you feel as though you still have unanswered questions, misunderstood answers, and worry you're not getting a full exam to which you are entitled?  It's up to you to communicate with your doctor your need to have this important information, and your prepared questions should be welcomed.

These questions and talking points can help you have your best visit yet.  Bring a notepad to jot down the information, then, before you leave, repeat it back to the doctor to be sure you've understood.  Better yet, bring someone with you to take the notes for you.

Be prepared for your next visit to the dentist with this checklist:

X-rays:  Patients should get a complete set of X-rays every three to five years. During regular checkups—which should be scheduled every six months to a year—X-rays should be taken of individual teeth that may have cracks or cavities. Pregnant women should not have X-rays.
 

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Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Syndrome:  Clenching, grinding, or bad alignment of teeth can cause this disorder. Even if you don't notice symptoms (headaches, jaw pain), your dentist should look at your bite and feel your jaw to ensure there is no stress to the joints.
 
Periodontal Exam: Have your gums receded? Your dentist should take measurements annually around each tooth to detect any gum disease.
 
Oral Cancer:  The inside of your mouth and the glands in your neck area should be checked each year.
 
Oral Surgery:  Anytime you receive general anesthesia, an oral surgeon, a surgical assistant and another assistant should be on hand to monitor your vital signs using an EKG, a blood pressure monitor and a pulse oximeter.  Either the oral surgeon must be licensed in anesthesiology by the state dental board (the license should be displayed in the office) or there must be an anesthesiologist present.


 

(c) Copyright 2014 Robyn King. All Rights Reserved.

Read more: http://www.oprah.com/health/Checklists-for-Visiting-the-Doctor/3#ixzz2vfeDNKvK

(c) Copyright 2014 Robyn M. King. All Rights Reserved.