Ok, we’re the first to admit it; no one likes going to the dentist. It’s a necessary evil we all have to put up with to keep our oral health in check.
But rather than look at a visit to your dentist as something to be avoided, take the opportunity to learn something new, take an active interest in your oral well-being, be pro-active and bring some questions for your dentist next time you visit.
Am I brushing right? What else should I be doing?
We’ve talked before about the correct way to brush your teeth, but it’s a surprisingly confusing topic.
Most people are brought up to brush a certain way, and because it’s something we learn in childhood, we never really question it. This means that if you’re doing it wrong, you don’t know, and it’s not like there are adult classes for teeth brushing to correct you.
Don’t be shy to ask your dentist or oral hygienist to give you a demonstration of how to brush your teeth correctly, or even a few pointers to see if you’re doing it the right way.
And while you’re there, ask if there is anything else you need help with like flossing or using mouthwash regularly.
Do your staff continue their education?
The world of dentistry and oral health is an ever-changing one. This is why it is important for your dentist to keep up with the latest theories, methods, and practices.
What was once common practice, even as recently as ten years ago, may now be anachronistic, so it is essential for all modern dental practitioners to continuously stay on top of their education in the industry.
The latest findings in hygiene, patient health, and dental techniques will constantly add strings to the bow of any self-respecting and professional dentist.
All our staff at SDAI are in continuous educational development, attending multiple seminars, lectures, and symposiums each year, determined to further their knowledge, and stay at the very top of their profession.
What do your other patients have to say about their dental experience?
Testimonials are a huge part of dental recommendations.
Even if going to the dentist is a chore for most people, there are still plenty of options out there, and word of mouth spreads about where to go, or more importantly, where not to go.
Any good dental practice will be happy to show you Google reviews or patient testimonials.
Here at SDAI for example, we have a 5 star rating on Google, along with a long list of satisfied, repeat customers.
Are you up-to-date with the latest technology?
Technology across all industries is rapidly advancing, especially in dentistry.
New advances in everything from x-rays to dental implants mean that professionals need to constantly update their skills and become familiar with the latest technologies.
From new methods of sterilisation to modern CEREC restorations, your dentist should not only be aware of the latest advances, but proficient in their use.
If they’re not, they could be using old methods and machines, which could be detrimental to your oral health if better options are available.
Can you explain to me what’s going on in layman’s terms?
With many medical professions, it’s sometimes easy for the practitioner to forget that not everyone has the wealth of experience and encyclopaedic knowledge that they have honed over the years.
Being able to talk in simple, layman’s terms to a patient is crucial if trust is to be built. Knowing exactly what is happening and how, can be significant in relaxing a patient, or maybe it’s the opposite; not all patients want to know the details.
Many people suffer from a fear of the dentist, and just want to know the bottom line of what’s happening, rather than a blow by blow account.
Again, being able to read and connect with a patient is key.
Is there anything I should tell my doctor about?
There are certain medical conditions which your dentist may be the first to spot on the horizon through your oral health.
Conditions such as oral thrush can be a sign of diabetes, or even something as simple as problems chewing can be a symptom of kidney disease.
Your oral health is the gateway to your overall health, so at your next check-up, it can’t hurt to ask your dentist if there is anything he thinks your doctor might need to have a closer look at.
We’re here at answer all your questions
At SDAI, our foremost concern is our patient’s comfort.
Our aim is to put you at ease from the moment you walk through the door, explaining every step of your procedure in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
No other dental practice in Sydney focuses on patient comfort more than us.
If you have any questions for your dentist, we will happy to answer them, whether it’s about our practice, or staff, or our treatments, or any other questions you may have.
Contact us today and make an appointment with one of our friendly receptionists. We can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.