Can Dentists Tell If You Don’t Brush or Floss Regularly?
If it’s been a while since your last dental checkup, it’s easy to exaggerate the statistics and tell your dentist that you just missed a few brushings. You may also want to spend a little extra time brushing and flossing on the day of your visit to ensure that your teeth are in the best possible condition for examination by a dentist.
However, if you participate in this type of behaviour, can dentists determine whether you are lying?
The answer is sort of – yes.
A Dentist Will Be Able To Tell A Lot About Your Dental and Oral Hygiene From A Quick Glance In Your Mouth
While it may seem like a good idea to lie a little to avoid your dentist’s wrath, a dentist can tell a lot about your dental hygiene simply by glancing in your mouth. After all, they’ll get a closer look at your teeth than you do at home, and it’ll be obvious if you’ve missed cleanings or neglected your brushing and flossing obligations.
But, here’s the deal. Your dentist is here to help you maintain and care for your teeth. Being honest will provide them with more information to assist you, which will benefit your teeth and oral health in the long term.
You Can’t Erase Your Oral Health – Plaque, Decay, Cavities, Gum Disease Will Give You Away
You may be able to trick your dentist about your diet, such as how many sugary beverages and sweets you consume, but you cannot erase the damage to your teeth. If you haven’t been taking care of your teeth, brushing immediately before your next checkup won’t remove the telltale indications of poor oral hygiene.
You can tell your doctor that you floss and brush your teeth every morning and night, but if they start probing around and your gums start bleeding everywhere, it’s referred to as a dental gotcha. They may go along with the ruse, amusing you during the visit, but both you and the dentist will know what’s going on.
Instead, it’s best to speak up front about your oral practices. A dentist will most likely find it out, and once it’s revealed, you can have an open discussion about how to get your teeth and mouth back on track. At the end of the day, the dentist is here to help you maintain your dental health, and the more honest you are with your dentist, the better the treatment you will receive.
Either way, they’re going to clear up any extra muck that you may have missed when brushing and flossing, so you may as well come clean. If you’re honest, your dentist can give you better advice, allowing you to reach a point where you don’t feel compelled to lie.
The Importance Of Good Oral Hygiene, Brushing And Flossing Regularly
Some people believe that not brushing and flossing your teeth will result in bad breath; however, this is not true. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to severe periodontal disease, causing tooth decay and perhaps necessitating surgery. Oral care has also been related to diabetes and other medical disorders, so you are not just risking foul breath, but also your health.
The fact is that your dentist is delighted to see you and would rather help than chastise you. Don’t put off taking care of your dental needs. Dental treatments are only a phone call away. At Southside Dental Care Glasgow, we can assist you with general dentistry, endodontics, paediatric dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and even emergency dentistry. Visit our website today and book an appointment!
