Each year, Americans make a total of about 500 million visits to dentists. But the person they’ll be spending most of their time with is me, your dental hygienist. And here are three things I’d like you to know:
- I’m not judging you.
It’s interesting how many of my patients immediately share reasons they haven’t been diligent about their oral hygiene or scheduling regular checkups. You act like you’re just waiting for a lecture -- it’s no wonder you don’t want to come see me. Remember, I’m not your mother, and no matter what you did or didn’t do in the past, you’re sitting in the chair now and I’m glad. It means you’re getting the health care you need and deserve.
- Bad breath makes me curious.
Halitosis, oral odor, bad breath … it’s all the same, and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about around me. The reason I’m bringing it up is to try to determine the cause, which can then help us choose a course of treatment. Possible causes include health ailments, medications that cause dry mouth, gum disease and nutrition choices.
- All mouths are dirty.
There are 10 to 50 billion bacteria residing in your mouth at any given time. That’s a lot! I do my best to attack the harmful types by cleaning your teeth thoroughly and scraping away tartar. The best way you can fight the good fight at home is to brush after eating, floss daily, and of course, come back to see me every six months. Now, go schedule your dental checkup!
