Going to the dentist twice a year for a regular checkup is always the best plan of preventative care for your teeth. Beyond the typical examination, this should be a general consultation about the health of your smile. Check out these three important questions to ask your dentist during your regular checkup.

Are there foods you should avoid to protect your teeth?

Most people know to steer clear of things like sugary soft drinks, coffee, candy, and junk food in general to protect their oral health. However, there are foods that can be severely hard on your teeth according to The American Dental Association, such as ice when you crunch on it and citrus if you are prone to soft tissue irritation. Talk to your dentist to find out if there are specific foods you should be avoiding.

Does it look like you will need specific future treatments?

Your dentist can usually give you a really good idea of what you should expect down the road as far as treatments go. For example, if you have signs of height loss in your teeth, it can be relative to bone deterioration in your jawline. Most dentists will supply information about what may have to happen eventually, but if they don’t bring up future treatment plans, it is always best to ask.

Will the medications you are taking hurt your teeth?

If you have been given any new medications, make sure you talk to your dentist about them. Some prescription medications can be really hard on your teeth and gums. There are more than 400 medications that cause dry mouth, for example, and dry mouth can mean decreased saliva and a higher risk of developing cavities.

Your dentist is a valuable resource for your health, so don’t be afraid to ask questions during a visit. Reach out to us at Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Woodbury, MN.