At Lyons Creek Dental Care in Shoreline, WA, we love what we do and we care deeply about helping every patient feel comfortable, confident, and informed. But sometimes, we wish we could share just a little more insight into what goes on behind the scenes when it comes to planning, delivering, and managing your dental care.
So, we asked our team one simple question:
“What’s one thing you wish every patient knew?”
Here’s what they had to say and why it might change the way you think about your next dental visit.
1. Your Medications Matter, Please Tell Us About Them
“I wish patients knew the medications they took and let us know what they are when we are creating a care plan.”
Knowing your current medications isn’t just a formality, it’s essential to your safety and successful treatment. Some medications can affect bleeding, healing, dry mouth, or even how your body responds to anesthesia. Keeping your dentist informed ensures we tailor your care appropriately and avoid complications.
Pro tip: Bring an updated list of all medications and supplements to every appointment.
2. Nightguards Really Do Make a Difference
“I wish patients knew the value of wearing their nightguard. And I wish they would bring it to their checkups.”
If you grind or clench your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), a nightguard protects your teeth from excessive wear, cracks, and sensitivity. It also helps reduce tension in your jaw muscles and protect prior dental work like crowns and veneers.
And yes, bring your nightguard to your dental checkups so we can clean it properly and check that it still fits your bite.
3. Cost Estimates Are Just That. Estimates.
“I wish patients knew that when we give an estimate of the costs for their care, it’s just an estimate, man!”
Dental offices do their best to provide accurate estimates for treatment, but insurance companies are unpredictable. We always share the full cost of your treatment plan but the insurance portion is an estimate based on the information we receive from your plan at that moment.
Coverage can change at any time without notice, which is why flexibility and good communication are key.
4. Don’t Rely Too Heavily on Insurance
“I wish patients knew they cannot rely on dental insurance to pay their way.”
This is one of the most important (and often misunderstood) truths in modern dentistry. Unlike medical insurance, dental insurance was never designed to cover everything. Most plans have low annual maximums and outdated benefit models.
Insurance can help with preventive care and contribute toward treatment, but the real investment in your oral health comes from you.
5. Sensitivity After Treatment Is Normal and Can Last Longer Than You Think
“I wish patients knew that sensitivity after a procedure can last longer than 2 days.”
Every tooth, treatment, and person is different. Some people bounce back in 24 hours, while others may feel lingering sensitivity for several days or even weeks.
Contributing factors include:
- Clenching or grinding
- Deep decay or cracks in the tooth
- Pre-existing gum infection or inflammation
If sensitivity persists or gets worse, don’t ignore it, call us for guidance.
6. Gum Disease Is Complex, Not a One-Time Fix
“I wish patients knew that periodontal disease is complicated, and there is no ‘one and done’ treatment for it.”
Gum disease isn’t just a matter of cleaning a tooth. It involves bacterial infection, bite imbalances, immune response, and sometimes systemic health issues. Managing it requires a multi-faceted approach, including:
- Deep cleanings (scaling & root planing)
- Consistent home care
- Bite adjustments
- Regular maintenance visits
- Sometimes, targeted medication or referral to a specialist
Treating periodontal disease takes time, consistency, and teamwork between you and your dental team.
We’re On Your Team
At Lyons Creek Dental Care, we’re here to partner with you, not lecture you. These insights from our team aren’t meant to overwhelm, but to help you feel empowered, informed, and confident in your dental decisions.
Your health is personal. Your care should be too. And the more you know, the better we can help you keep your smile strong for life.
Have questions about your treatment, coverage, or dental care in general? We’d love to help.
Call us or schedule an appointment online today.
