Annual dental check-ups can feel like a real bother when you don’t have anything wrong with your teeth. Though you may not arrive at your appointment with a problem, you may have one down the road. Get ahead of the game and make you or your child’s visit worthwhile by asking questions to avoid future dental problems.

Here are a few questions you should be asking on you or your loved one’s next dental visit.

Questions for adults:

• Should I be coming in more often to get my teeth cleaned?
• What kind of toothbrush should I be using?
• Based off the health of my teeth, do I need to be making any dietary changes?
• What kind of mouthwash would benefit me specifically?
• What kind of toothpaste would be best for me?
• How can I make my teeth whiter?
• How often do I need x-rays?
• Who do I contact in a dental emergency?

Questions for kids:

• What toothpaste is best for a child to use who has both adult and baby teeth?
• What brands should I be using on my infant or toddlers’ teeth?
• Will my child need to see an orthodontist? If so, when?
• Is my child doing a good job brushing their teeth? How can they improve?
• How often does my child need x-rays?
• How can I improve my child’s over all gum and teeth health to avoid future issues?
• What kind of mouthwash would benefit my child specifically?
• What precautionary measures should I take with my child to avoid cavities in the future?
• How often does my child need their teeth cleaned per year?

Asking these preventative questions during your annual dental appointment will help ensure you and your child walk out of every check-up with a healthy future ahead.