Dental visits, no matter how unpleasant, are essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Most dental appointments may involve routine checkups and cleanings. At times, however, you may have questions regarding procedures or habits, but any feeling of embarrassment or worry over judgment from the dentist may prevent you from asking them. To make it easier for you, here are some of the most common but uncomfortable questions that people are too shy to ask.

Where does the saliva go?
You may have seen the suction line during any dental procedure. This suction removes the excess saliva and tooth debris from one’s mouth and helps to keep their mouth dry, which can otherwise interfere with the treatment. The device funnels waste materials, including spit, through a filtering system that separates liquids from solids. The waste is then disposed of into the office’s wastewater system.

Does the treatment have any side effects?
Filings, extractions, and root canals may have potential risk factors. Some common side effects may include pain, swelling, or temporary sensitivity. By asking about the possible side effects of a treatment to your dentist, you can better prepare for any discomfort or complications that may arise after the procedure.

What are the potential dental risks I should be aware of?
You need to be aware of any potential dental risks specific to your oral condition. Some problems may be hereditary, while some can be taken care of with better oral care. Any ongoing treatments may require additional care. For example, elaborate treatments like implants and root canals may carry certain risks, including nerve damage. So, knowing the risks can be helpful in understanding your condition better.

Is it true that our toothbrushes have bathroom contamination on them?
When you use the bathroom, whether post shower or after flushing the toilet, tiny invisible particles and bacteria may become airborne and settle onto nearby objects. If your toothbrush is left exposed, the bristles may get contaminated. But since these particles form the body’s natural microbiota, they may not pose a serious health risk. To discourage bacterial growth, however, people are advised to store their toothbrush in an open and dry environment. It’s also a good practice to keep toothbrushes separate from each other to avoid cross-contamination.

Could my other therapies interfere with my dental treatment?
Dentists encourage their patients to share their health history to ensure that the treatments do not pose a risk to dental procedures. For example, any blood-thinning therapies may lead to bleeding during dental treatments, while autoimmune conditions like diabetes may delay healing and make one susceptible to bacterial infections. Coming clean about one’s health conditions and any ongoing therapies may help the dentist to alter the treatment plan to lower the risk of any potential complications.

Can you tell if I don’t floss enough?
Flossing is an important part of oral hygiene, which helps individuals to get rid of the plaque and food stuck between the teeth where their brush cannot reach. Having said that, most people tend to ignore this step and consider brushing to be enough, despite knowing its importance. Some even indulge in “floss-fudging” techniques, which means they only floss just before a dental appointment. In such cases, a dentist is easily able to tell the difference. Inflammation, bleeding, or persistent plaque between teeth are some telltale signs that give it away.