there just wasn’t time. Honestly, I think a bit longer would help—especially for all the stuff beyond just brushing and flossing.
Right? Sometimes it feels like you’re speed dating your dentist. I always wanna ask about mouthwash or weird gum stuff, but by the time I get my questions out, they’re already handing me that little baggie of floss. I get why some folks want in-and-out, but I wouldn’t mind a couple extra minutes if it meant less “here’s some antibiotics, see you in six months.”
I totally get that feeling—sometimes I leave with more questions than answers. I’ve had gum issues for years, and it does seem like they jump to antibiotics pretty quick. I started writing down my questions before appointments, just so I don’t forget in the rush. It helps a bit, though yeah... would be nice if there was more time to talk through stuff like mouthwash or home care. Not everyone wants to be in and out so fast.
Totally relate to the “more questions than answers” thing. I once tried to ask about flossing technique and somehow left with a prescription and zero clue if I was even doing it right. Writing stuff down helps, but yeah, feels like a speed-run sometimes. Hang in there—at least you’re not alone in the confusion.
Writing stuff down helps, but yeah, feels like a speed-run sometimes.
That “speed-run” feeling is spot on. I’ve left appointments with more paperwork than answers, too. Sometimes I wonder if dentists just default to antibiotics because it’s quick and easy, but it doesn’t always address the root cause. When I started braces, my gums flared up a bit, and all I got was a rinse and a vague “keep brushing.” It took a few visits—and a lot of trial and error—to figure out what worked for me. Definitely helps to jot things down, even if it feels a bit over the top at first.
I get what you mean about the paperwork—sometimes I leave the ortho with a stack of instructions and barely any memory of what we actually discussed. When my gums started acting up after getting bands, I was just told to “rinse more” and use this generic mouthwash. No real explanation, just a quick fix. I kept track of what triggered flare-ups (certain foods, not flossing enough, etc.), but it was all trial and error on my end. Anyone else feel like you have to do your own detective work just to get clear answers?
