Questions to Ask During Your Next Dental Checkup

Whether you are monitoring an existing condition or just keeping up with routine dental cleanings and exams, regular checkups are crucial in maintaining your overall oral health. Each appointment is also an excellent opportunity to ask questions and get expert guidance from an experienced dental professional.

The next time you sit in that dental chair, speak up! Make the most of the opportunity by speaking openly with your dental team about your oral health, including any questions or concerns you have regarding your teeth, gums, jaws, and oral hygiene habits. We’ve rounded up four basic yet critical questions to prioritize during your next dental checkup.

How’s My Overall Oral Health?

During a dental checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and jaws for signs of emerging oral health issues. Your dentist will spend time checking your teeth for signs of infection or decay, and if cavities are found, they will develop a plan to treat them.

It can be easy to view a cavity-free smile as the hallmark of dental wellness, but there are many other factors that contribute to your overall oral health. As such, it can be helpful to ask your dentist for a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, as well as tips to improve it.

If you’re experiencing any specific symptoms that could point to an oral health issue, it’s important to let your dentist know right away. By being upfront and honest about the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaws, you’ll help your dentist customize the best treatment plan for your unique needs.

What’s Causing These Symptoms? 

If you’re experiencing oral health problems like a toothache, bad breath, or tooth discoloration, you’ll want to consult your dentist to help you get to the bottom of the problem. Bad breath, for instance, could result from poor dental hygiene habits or could be a sign of other conditions, like gum disease or even tonsil infections.

Understanding the signs and risk factors for various dental issues can be a valuable tool in protecting your oral health. However, this begins with you asking the right questions during your appointment.

How Can I Improve My Oral Hygiene?

This is a general question that will give you great insights into your overall oral health. A conversation about how best to care for your teeth and gums will cover the best teeth brushing and flossing techniques for natural teeth and any restorations you may have.

You can also ask your dentist’s opinion on different oral hygiene products. For example, your dentist can provide a professional recommendation on the best toothbrush type for your teeth and gums, as well as key ingredients to look out for when choosing a toothpaste or mouthwash.

Which Foods or Drinks Should I Avoid?

Whether or not you have underlying oral health issues, it’s a good idea to avoid overindulging in sugary or acidic foods, as they can contribute to weakened enamel and tooth decay. In addition, highly pigmented beverages such as red wine, coffee, tea, or fruit juice can also contribute to tooth staining and discoloration. Talk to your dentist about what food and drinks to avoid to ensure you maintain strong and healthy teeth, as well as the best dietary choices for good oral and overall health.

Stay Ahead of Dental Problems

Maintaining your optimal oral health requires attending your regular dental checkups and having open conversations with your dentist. By asking the right questions, you can take charge of your oral health and partner with your dentist to improve your dental well-being.