Important Questions to Ask Your Dentist
Important Questions to Ask Your Dentist
Important questions to ask your dentist help you understand your oral health, avoid surprises, and feel confident in your treatment plan.
What should I ask about my oral health?
What is the current state of my teeth and gums, in simple words?
Do you see any early signs of cavities, cracks, or gum disease that I should watch closely?
Are there areas I am missing when I brush or floss, and can you show me exactly where?
How can I improve my home care?
How often should I come in for checkups and cleanings based on my personal risk, not just “twice a year”?
Which toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash do you recommend for my situation (sensitivity, implants, braces, dry mouth, etc.)?
What small changes at home would make the biggest difference for my long‑term oral health?
What if treatment is recommended?
Which problems need treatment now, and which can safely be monitored over time?
What options do I have (for example, filling vs. crown vs. inlay), and what are the pros and cons of each?
What will this procedure feel like, how long will it take to heal, and what can I do to make recovery easier?
How much will it cost?
Can you explain the total cost of my treatment plan and what my insurance is likely to cover?
Are there lower‑cost or phased treatment options that are still clinically safe for me?
Do you offer payment plans or membership programs if I don’t have insurance?
How do I know this is the right dentist for me?
What is your approach to anxious patients, and how do you make treatment more comfortable?
Who will I see at most appointments (the same dentist/hygienist or different providers), and how can I reach you between visits if I have questions?
How do you decide when to refer to a specialist such as an endodontist, periodontist, or oral surgeon?
Quick checklist for your next visit
Ask for a plain‑language summary: “If you had to describe my mouth in two sentences, what would you say?”
Leave with a simple plan: what to do daily at home, what needs treatment (and when), and when to schedule your next visit.