Withholding information on a visit to the dentist in Liverpool – no matter how insignificant it may seem to the patient – or covering up the truth with a white lie is counterintuitive. A consequence of lying to a dental practitioner is that omissions regarding oral health or dental hygiene pose a risk to the dental health of the patient. In the case of dental problems, these can progress very quickly and timely dental care is essential in preventing the problem from escalating and resulting in more complex issues.
Being honest with the dentist in Liverpool is essential for a number of reasons. Firstly, in order to provide a patient with the best quality dental care, our dental practitioners need a candid overview of the patient’s dental habits, especially those that may have caused worrying symptoms. To treat a dental issue, our dentists will need to know the underlying root of the problem, as well as provide the patient with proactive guidelines or preventive measures to implement to avoid the problem from arising again in the future.
Secondly, there is always the physical evidence in the mouth that can disprove a patient’s words. An experienced dentist in Liverpool can read the signs of a patient’s oral health through a dental examination. On more than one occasion a patient will be caught off guard by a dentist’s observation of their general health after a dental inspection.
The serious risks of lying to the dentist
Lying to the dentist is more common than first thought. Patients often omit what they believe to be embarrassing information to avoid further treatment or they may not want to receive bad news. However withholding information may have serious consequences. For example, a patient not being truthful about the number of times that they brush or the brushing techniques they use, means a dentist will not be able to correct any brushing mistakes that will lead to cavities and tooth decay.
Patients who smoke but claim they gave up the habit when they did not, may not receive the appropriate dental treatments to protect their teeth and gums. Smoking has a damaging effect on gums, bone and tissues and dentist will need to see the patient on a more frequent basis to monitor the condition.
Three top lies a dentist knows you’re telling
- ‘I floss every day’
This is the most common misleading statement we hear at our dental clinic. Gum inflammation is one of the more prevalent signs of any gum problem that arises when a patient neglects to floss. But there are also other medical conditions that can cause this symptom, such as leukaemia. Omitting the truth makes it hard for the dentist to detect health problems of a more serious nature when they might advise a doctor’s appointment .
- ‘I’m not in any pain’
There is no reason for a patient to suffer discomfort or pain during a dental procedure. There are many techniques at the dentist’s disposal to minimise discomfort. Suffering through pain will only encourage a patient to avoid dental care in the future and put their oral health at risk.
- ‘I drink alcohol on occasion’
Patients who are heavy drinkers are at a greater risk of developing oral cancer. At Liverpool Smile Studio we are well aware of how much anxiety can affect a patient’s experience at the dentist. This is why we offer compassionate and supportive dental care. Contact our clinic for more information.