Confessions of a Dental Checkup: 3 Lies Your Dentist Sees Through

When you are at your dental checkup, your dentist or hygienist will inevitably ask you some questions. They’ll want to make sure they have a good understanding of your oral health while ensuring your visit is comfortable. However, while you may be tempted to tell a white lie depending on what they ask, the team can often tell otherwise. Here are three mistruths that you may say and how they can decipher them based on your smile.

Lie #1: I Always Floss Every Day

A great at-home dental hygiene routine involves brushing twice and flossing once a day. This helps remove harmful bacteria and plaque on your teeth and under your gumline. However, many people tend to skip that latter step.

You may already know the importance of flossing, but don’t do it too often yourself. It’s easy to lie to seem like you are consistent with it, but your dentist can tell if you aren’t. They will see if you have any buildup in places that this habit is meant to get. If they do notice a lot, then they can tell you aren’t being truthful.

Lie #2: It Doesn’t Hurt, I’m Not in Pain

As you get your cleaning, you may have some discomfort during it. While the team tries their best to make it easy and pain-free, the odd sensations can get to you at certain times. They may ask you throughout your visit if it hurts, but you may say that it doesn’t to seem stronger.

Your hygienist will be able to tell if you are fibbing because of how your body reacts. While your voice is saying one thing, your physical movements may be expressing something else entirely. You may flinch, close your eyes, or tighten your legs if something is causing you discomfort. By being honest, they can offer you a quick breather to find relief and calm down.

Lie #3: I Don’t Bite My Nails

There are many reasons that you bite your nails, and you might’ve been told by someone in your life to stop. It’s a hard habit to kick, but it’s especially harmful to your teeth. It can cause tiny cracks in your enamel that you may not see, but they show up in X-rays. You may tell your dentist you don’t do it, but they will be able to see after taking at these digital images.

While you may want to tell a harmless lie at your next checkup, it’s not the best. You should answer honestly; that way, your provider knows how to make your visit less stressful while giving you the best care you deserve.

About the Practice

At Peery & Woolwine Family Dentistry, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are dedicated to helping the Lynchburg community get problem-free smiles with preventive treatments like checkups and cleanings. Our goal is to make them comfortable and efficient, so you leave feeling your best. If it’s time for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at (434) 847-5331.