Prepare for your dental checkup with this guide covering insurance verification, medical history updates, questions for your dentist, and post-visit care planning.
Verify your dental insurance coverage and remaining benefits
Most dental plans have an annual maximum of $1,000-$2,000. Benefits reset on January 1 for most plans. About 40% of insured patients leave unused benefits on the table each year.
Confirm your appointment date, time, and office location
Call or check online 2 days before your visit. Missed dental appointments cost practices an estimated $150-$300 per slot. Most offices charge a $25-$75 no-show fee.
Complete or update patient intake forms before arrival
Many offices offer online portal access for forms. Completing these at home saves 10-15 minutes in the waiting room and ensures you accurately report your medical history.
Bring your insurance card and photo ID
If you have both medical and dental insurance, bring both cards. Some dental procedures like oral surgery may be partially covered under your medical plan, potentially saving you 30-50% on out-of-pocket costs.
Medical History Updates
List all current medications including over-the-counter drugs
Over 500 medications cause dry mouth as a side effect, which significantly increases cavity risk. Common culprits include antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants.
Note any new medical diagnoses since your last dental visit
Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and pregnancy directly affect dental treatment plans. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes are 3 times more likely to develop periodontal disease.
Report any allergies, especially to latex, anesthetics, or antibiotics
About 1-6% of the population has a latex allergy, which affects glove selection during your exam. True allergies to local anesthetics like lidocaine are rare (under 1%), but your dentist needs to know.
Oral Health Self-Assessment
Note any tooth pain, sensitivity, or changes in your mouth
Record the specific tooth location, when it started, and what triggers it (hot, cold, biting pressure). Sharp pain when biting often indicates a crack, while lingering sensitivity to cold may signal decay reaching the nerve.
Check for bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
Bleeding gums affect about 50% of adults and are the earliest sign of gum disease. If bleeding persists for more than 2 weeks of consistent flossing, it likely indicates gingivitis that needs professional treatment.
Examine your mouth for sores, lumps, or discoloration
Any mouth sore lasting longer than 14 days should be evaluated by your dentist. Oral cancer screenings take about 2 minutes during a routine exam, and early detection raises the 5-year survival rate to over 80%.
Assess whether you grind your teeth or clench your jaw
About 10-15% of adults grind their teeth during sleep. Signs include worn tooth surfaces, jaw soreness upon waking, and headaches. A custom night guard costs $300-$500 but prevents thousands in future dental damage.
Questions to Ask Your Dentist
Ask about the current state of your gums and bone levels
Periodontal probing depths of 1-3mm are healthy. Depths of 4mm or more indicate gum disease. About 47% of adults over 30 have some form of periodontal disease.
Ask when your next set of X-rays is due
Bitewing X-rays are typically taken every 12-24 months for adults. A full-mouth series is recommended every 3-5 years. Digital X-rays use 80% less radiation than traditional film.
Discuss whether your brushing and flossing technique is effective
Brush for a full 2 minutes twice daily with a soft-bristled brush. Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Electric toothbrushes reduce plaque 21% more than manual brushes over 3 months.
Ask about fluoride treatments or sealants if you are cavity-prone
Professional fluoride treatments reduce cavity risk by 30% in adults. Sealants on molars prevent 80% of cavities in those teeth. Both are often covered by insurance for patients under 18 and sometimes for high-risk adults.
Day-of Visit Preparation
Brush and floss before your appointment
This removes loose debris and makes the cleaning more efficient. Your hygienist can better identify problem areas when they are not masked by heavy plaque buildup from that day.
Avoid whitening products for 48 hours before your visit
Whitening strips and toothpastes can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity, making it harder for your dentist to diagnose genuine sensitivity issues. They can also irritate gum tissue before a cleaning.
Eat a light meal 1-2 hours before if no sedation is planned
A stable blood sugar level helps you sit comfortably through a 45-60 minute cleaning and exam. Avoid foods with strong odors or sticky residues like garlic or caramel.
Post-Visit Action Items
Schedule your next cleaning before leaving the office
Most adults should have cleanings every 6 months. Patients with gum disease may need visits every 3-4 months. Booking ahead ensures you get a preferred time slot and maintains consistent care.
Schedule any recommended follow-up treatments promptly
A small cavity that costs $150-$250 to fill can become a $1,000-$1,500 root canal if delayed 6-12 months. Early treatment saves both money and tooth structure.
Purchase any recommended oral care products
If your dentist recommends a specific toothpaste, mouthwash, or floss type, buy it within 24 hours while the recommendation is fresh. Prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste (5000 ppm) costs $8-$15 per tube.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I go to the dentist for a checkup?
The standard recommendation is every 6 months for a cleaning and exam. People with gum disease, a history of cavities, or weakened immune systems may need visits every 3-4 months. If you have excellent oral health and low risk, some dentists are comfortable with once-a-year visits.
What happens during a routine dental checkup?
A typical visit lasts 45-60 minutes and includes a professional cleaning (scaling and polishing), an oral exam for cavities and gum disease, an oral cancer screening, and usually X-rays once a year to catch hidden decay between teeth. Your dentist will also check existing fillings or crowns for wear.
Should I brush my teeth right before a dental appointment?
Yes, brush and floss before your visit so the hygienist can see your teeth in their best condition. Avoid brushing too aggressively right before, as irritated gums can bleed more during cleaning and make the exam harder to interpret. A normal brush 30-60 minutes beforehand is ideal.
How much does a dental checkup cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a routine cleaning and exam runs $150-$350 depending on your location. X-rays add another $25-$250. Many dental offices offer in-house membership plans for uninsured patients at $200-$400 per year that cover two cleanings, exams, and basic X-rays.
Do I need to tell my dentist about medications I take?
Absolutely. Blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin affect how much you bleed during cleanings. Bisphosphonates for osteoporosis can cause rare but serious jaw complications after extractions. Medications causing dry mouth (over 400 drugs do) dramatically increase cavity risk. Always bring an updated medication list to every visit.