Dental check-ups are essential for anyone who wants to take care of their oral health and are a great time to talk to an expert and ask questions about your mouth and teeth. However, it can be hard to think of relevant questions at the moment. This short guide explains three simple questions you might want to ask at your dentist appointment.

How Can You Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine?

You might think your brushing, flossing and mouthwash routine is impeccable, but there's always room for improvement. After your dentist has looked at your teeth, they'll be in a great position to point out ways to improve, whether you're regularly missing a spot at the back, brushing too hard, or not using the right equipment. They'll be able to give you the best advice on technique, as well as recommending the right kind of toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash. This will help you to make your daily routine as good as it can be, avoiding cavities and other tooth issues in the future.

How's the Overall State of Your Oral Health?

Going to the dentist isn't just about your teeth: the state of your mouth can be a great indicator of your oral health. By looking at your mouth, your dentist might be able to see early signs of osteoporosis, diabetes and heart disease. As cancer.net explains, it's also often the case that dentists can spot the earliest indications of oral cancer. Make sure you ask your dentist about anything unusual they've seen, from an unusual spot to bad breath, so you can follow it up with your doctor. If you have one of the conditions above, such as diabetes, you may also want to mention this to your dentist, so they can look for indications of how it's affecting your oral health.

What Cosmetic Dentistry Options Are Available to You?

If you're worried about the look of your teeth, or simply want a confidence booster, you might want to ask about cosmetic dentistry. Your dentist will be able to give you all the information you need about options ranging from whitening to adult braces to veneers — and because they know the state of your teeth, and your oral health, they'll know exactly which ones might be suitable for your needs. They can also give their honest opinion about whether treatment would benefit you and what the results would look like. There's no obligation to follow up, but your regular check-up is a great time to ask about the options.

By asking these three questions, you can make the most of your dental check-up, as well as ensuring that you have as much information as possible about your teeth and overall health.