10 Questions Every Senior Should Ask Their Dentist

Dental visits are more useful when you leave with answers you actually understand.

After 60, those questions may involve more than cavities.

You may have:

• older restorations
• gum recession
• dry mouth
• implants
• dentures
• medications
• changing insurance or finances

Here are ten questions worth asking.

1. What Is My Biggest Dental Risk Right Now?

Ask whether your main concern is:

• cavities
• root decay
• periodontal disease
• dry mouth
• failing restorations
• implant problems
• something else

Knowing the priority helps you focus your home care and spending.

2. Do I Have Gingivitis or Periodontitis?

“Your gums look a little inflamed” is not the same as understanding your diagnosis.

Ask:

• Do I have periodontal disease?
• Is there bone loss?
• Are my pockets getting deeper?
• Is the disease stable?

3. How Often Do I Actually Need to Come Back?

Do not assume the answer must be six months.

Ask why the dentist recommends:

• three months
• four months
• six months
• another interval

Your recall schedule should reflect your risk rather than age alone.

4. Is Dry Mouth Putting My Teeth at Risk?

Ask if your mouth appears dry and whether medications might be contributing.

If dry mouth is significant, ask about:

• fluoride
• saliva substitutes
• sugar-free gum or lozenges
• cavity-prevention strategies

Do not stop a prescription medicine on your own.

5. Are My Old Fillings and Crowns Still Healthy?

Ask whether there are signs of:

• cracks
• leakage
• decay around margins
• wear
• looseness

An old restoration does not need replacement simply because it is old.

The question is whether it is still functioning properly.

6. Are My Implants, Bridges or Dentures Being Cleaned Properly?

Ask your hygienist to show you rather than simply saying:

“I floss.”

Different restorations may need:

• floss threaders
• interdental brushes
• water flossers
• specialty brushes

7. Do I Need These X-Rays?

X-rays can provide important diagnostic information, but frequency should be individualized.

Ask:

• What are you looking for?
• Will the result affect treatment?
• Can previous X-rays be used?

8. What Can I Do at Home to Prevent the Next Problem?

Ask for specific advice.

For example:

• different brushing technique
• interdental brush size
• fluoride toothpaste
• prescription fluoride
• denture-care changes

9. What Treatment Is Most Important — and What Can Wait?

If several procedures are recommended, ask for priorities.

You may want the treatment plan divided into:

• urgent
• important
• monitor
• elective

This is especially useful when cost is a concern.

10. What Should Make Me Call Before My Next Visit?

Ask which symptoms should not wait.

Examples may include:

• swelling
• tooth pain
• loose tooth
• broken restoration
• implant mobility
• persistent mouth sore

Bring These Things to Your Appointment

Consider bringing:

• medication list
• supplement list
• insurance information
• questions written in advance
• information about recent medical changes

If you tend to forget details during appointments, take notes or bring someone you trust.