A first appointment with a new dentist is your best chance to understand both the state of your mouth and how this practice works. Many people leave without asking what they meant to ask. This guide is a question checklist you can bring with you, organized by topic. It complements our article on what to expect at your first visit with a new dentist, which covers the process itself, such as paperwork, X-rays and the exam.
How to use this checklist
- Pick the five to ten questions that matter most to you; you do not need to ask all of them.
- Write them down or keep them on your phone.
- Ask some questions when booking (practical ones), and save clinical ones for after the exam.
- Take notes, or ask for a written summary of findings and the treatment plan.
Questions about your current oral health
- “Overall, how healthy are my teeth and gums?”
- “Do I have any cavities, cracked teeth or failing fillings?”
- “What did my gum measurements show?” Healthy pockets are usually 1 to 3 millimeters, according to NIDCR; ask what your numbers mean.
- “Do you see any signs of gum disease?” The CDC notes gum disease can become serious before symptoms appear.
- “Is there anything you want to monitor rather than treat now?”
- “Did the oral cancer screening or soft-tissue exam show anything to watch?”
- “Can you show me on the X-rays or photos?”
Questions about recommended treatment
- “What do you recommend, and why?”
- “What happens if I wait? Is this urgent, or can it be scheduled over time?”
- “What are my alternatives, including the least invasive option?”
- “How long should this treatment last, and what maintenance will it need?”
- “In what order would you do things if I cannot do it all at once?”
- “Will any part of this be done by a specialist?” See our guide to dental specialists.
- “Would you mind if I got a second opinion?” A confident dentist should not object.
Questions about cost and insurance
- “Are you in-network with my plan?” (Ideally ask this before booking.)
- “Can I get an itemized written estimate with procedure codes?”
- “Will you send a pre-treatment estimate to my insurer?”
- “How much of my annual maximum would this use?” Our guide to understanding dental insurance explains these terms.
- “Do you offer payment plans or an in-office membership plan if I am uninsured?”
- “If my plan has a waiting period, which parts can be done now?” HealthCare.gov notes that stand-alone dental plans can have waiting periods.
Questions about prevention and home care
- “How often should I come in for checkups and cleanings?” The ADA says there is no one-size-fits-all schedule (MouthHealthy); ask for a recommendation based on your mouth. See how often to see the dentist.
- “Is there anything I should change in how I brush or clean between my teeth?”
- “Would I benefit from fluoride treatments, sealants or a prescription toothpaste?”
- “Do my medications affect my mouth, for example by causing dry mouth?”
- “Do I show signs of grinding or clenching? Would a night guard help?”
- “Is there anything about my diet or habits that is affecting my teeth?”
Questions about the practice
- “Who will I usually see: the same dentist and hygienist each time?”
- “How do I reach you after hours if I have a dental emergency?” See what counts as a dental emergency.
- “How far in advance should I book routine visits?”
- “How do you handle anxious patients?” Our dental anxiety tips may help you explain what you need.
- “Can I get copies of my X-rays and records?”
- “Do you see children?” If so, compare options in our pediatric vs. general dentist guide.
Questions for specific situations
If you are considering cosmetic work
- “What results are realistic for my teeth, and what are the risks?” See our teeth whitening guide.
If you are missing teeth
- “Which replacement options suit me, and how do they compare in cost and longevity?” See implants vs. bridges vs. dentures.
If you are thinking about straightening teeth
- “Am I a candidate for clear aligners or braces?” See clear aligners vs. braces.
If you have health conditions
- “Do my conditions or medications change how you treat me?” Bring a full medication list.
Getting clear answers
If an answer uses unfamiliar terms, ask, “Can you explain that in plain language?” If you are overwhelmed, it is reasonable to say, “I’d like a copy of the plan to review at home.” Good dentists expect questions and welcome informed patients.
After the visit
Review your notes and the written plan. If anything feels unclear or you are unsure about the fit, our checklist of what to look for in a dental practice can help you decide whether to stay. You can also browse other dentists in our directory.
Frequently asked questions
What should I ask a new dentist?
Focus on your current oral health, the reasons for and alternatives to any recommended treatment, costs and insurance, home care, and how the practice handles emergencies.
Is it rude to ask for a second opinion?
No. Asking for time to review a treatment plan or get a second opinion is reasonable, especially for major work.
Should I ask about cost before treatment?
Yes. Ask for an itemized written estimate and, if insured, a pre-treatment estimate from your insurer.
How is this different from your first-visit guide?
Our first-visit guide explains what happens during the appointment. This checklist focuses on the questions to ask while you are there.
Photo: Gustavo Fring / Pexels
Sources
- ADA MouthHealthy – Common Questions About Going to the Dentist
- CDC – About Periodontal (Gum) Disease
- NIH / NIDCR – Periodontal (Gum) Disease
- HealthCare.gov – Dental Coverage in the Marketplace
By the Dentists Reviews Editorial Team.
This is general information, not medical advice. Talk to a licensed dentist about your own situation. See our disclaimer.
