How to Determine Which Dental Procedure is Best For You
For most people, going to the dentist is the last thing they want to do. Anxiety can mount when hearing that they need a dental procedure like a root canal or filling. What if your dentist recommends a procedure, but you’re not sure you should have it done? You have the right to ask questions before agreeing to a dental procedure, and you have the right to get those questions answered when deciding which dental procedure is best for you.
What Kind of Filling Material Will Be Used?
If your dentist answers metal or fillings made from mercury or an amalgam, you need another opinion. Metal fillings can be dangerous. That’s why modern dentists opt for safer options like ceramic fillings. The most common filling options are resin or plastic fillings, which have a reduced risk.
Is This the Least Invasive Way to Address My Dental Issue?
Sometimes dentists will do what’s easiest for them. They’re not looking for the best long-term solution for you. You must advocate to ensure you’re given all the options before saying yes to a dental procedure.
This includes understanding the risk of a dental procedure. Compare the risks with the benefits. When the choices are laid out for you, you can make a decision that is in the best interests of your long-term health.
Ask your dentist if your tooth decay can be remineralized. Not all dentists are a fan of this option. But if you know the depth of your cavity and whether the cavity has broken through the dentin, you can decide this matter for yourself.
Knowing whether or not your tooth decay can be reversed can help you avoid unnecessary dental procedures. It can also be the catalyst that will help you choose a better diet and lifestyle that are key to remineralization efforts.
Do You Mind If I Get a Second Opinion?
It can feel uncomfortable to ask a dentist this question. But it’s something that you need to ask. The experience levels of dentists vary. One dentist may see a particular procedure as necessary, whereas another may be able to provide a less invasive or less destructive option.
A second opinion will help you feel more comfortable with a treatment or a diagnosis. It can help reassure you that a course of treatment was necessary or help you see that it was not required.
When you work with the best dentist in Cary NC, they will have no problem with you getting a second opinion. They want their customers to feel as comfortable as possible with a procedure, so they openly welcome patients taking this route. Hence, everyone is satisfied with the procedures being performed.
How Can Nutrition Improve My Dental Health?
Diet and nutrition are essential to solving oral health issues. Unfortunately, if your dentist does not discuss nutrition with you, you may think that your oral health issues are just because you don’t take care of your teeth.
Ask your dentist about their approach to nutrition and dental care. This will help you know if they can handle your dental concerns, help you avoid future problems, and treat your oral health holistically.
Discuss Your Fears with Your Dentist
The more transparent you are with your dentist, the better your dentist can do at giving you the peace of mind and assurance you need. Some of the discomfort you may have about a particular procedure is because you don’t know what to expect or may have read erroneous information elsewhere.
No one can do a better job of debunking your fears than your dentist. Trust their expertise and capabilities. They have taken years to study their craft and know how to do what they do.
You Are in Control
As a patient, you have complete control over your dental treatment. If you have questions or concerns, you have the right to speak up and ensure that your concerns are addressed. Even if you don’t need to have a particular procedure done at the end of the day, you should never be reluctant to get more information about your dental health and history. After all, it is your health.
