What Should I Ask My Dentist During My Next Appointment?

Having the right dentist can make your dental checkups a relaxing and enjoyable experience. While regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor and thoroughly clean your teeth while correcting problems in their early stages, they also allow you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your oral healthcare. Here’s a brief list of excellent questions to ask your dentist during your next checkup.

How Is My Oral Health Holding Up?

Part of your dentist’s job is explaining any dental issues you may have, and asking for a summary of the state of your oral health can help you to better manage your daily hygiene routine. You should walk away from your checkup knowing exactly where your dental health is and what you can do to improve it over the coming months. It’s important to ask about:

• If you are brushing and flossing properly
• How healthy your gums are
• If there are any concerns you should be wary of (weak teeth, potential for cavities, etc.)

How Can I Maintain the Health of My Gums?

About half of all American adults have some form of gum disease, and allowing it to progress can lead to serious issues like bone erosion, tooth loss, and even dangerous secondary infections like sepsis or pneumonia. While it can be reversed if it is caught early, it will cause permanent damage in its later stages while requiring professional dental intervention to be resolved. By asking your dentist about your risk of developing gum disease, you can learn what you need to focus on to prevent it.

How Should I Be Cleaning My Teeth?

While you may think that one toothbrush or brand of toothpaste is as good as any other, your dentist may have specific recommendations for you. There are many different models of toothbrushes out there, and your dentist may recommend ones with certain features to address your particular situation. For example, hard-bristled toothbrushes may be excellent for removing plaque or stains, but they can damage your teeth and gums if you aren’t careful. Similarly, your dentist may recommend a desensitizing toothpaste if you have sensitive teeth.

Your dentist is your smile’s best friend, so they should see each other for a friendly visit at least twice a year. By staying educated about your own oral health, you can help keep your smile beautiful for many years to come.

About the Author

Dr. Laura Philipps earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine at Tufts University and continues her education through advanced coursework to expand her clinical skillset. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. Her office in Midland, TX offers general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your next dental appointment, contact her office online or dial (432) 570-4433.