The general rule of thumb is that you should visit your dentist every six months. However, studies have shown that people without any dental problems can go once a year, while those with dental issues should be checked every 3 to 4 months. To help you determine how often you should go to the dentist, here are some guidelines. Preventing plaque from turning into tartar is one of the main reasons why regular dental appointments are important.
Even the most skilled toothbrush and floss cannot remove tartar on their own. Additionally, visiting the dentist regularly can help keep more than just your teeth healthy. Signs of several conditions, such as diabetes and anemia, can sometimes be detected in your mouth. If your dentist notices something wrong during a visit, they may refer you to a specialist for further review.
While once or twice a year is the best rule of thumb for the average person, certain factors can increase the need for more frequent cleanings. At the end of the consultation, your dentist should suggest a date for your next visit. This may be before six months or further away, depending on your current oral health and risk of developing problems. By keeping up with your daily hygiene, you may even reduce the number of mandatory dental appointments.
Your dentist is trained to observe small clues and seemingly minor changes that could indicate a major health problem. If you have children, their first dental appointment should be scheduled within six months of their first tooth coming out. Some studies have found no difference between the number of decayed teeth, fillings, or missing teeth in those who went to the dentist frequently and those who didn't, while other studies found fewer fillings in those who attended more often. Periodontitis prevention includes general oral hygiene and regular dental visits for professional cleanings.
If you're someone more likely to develop cavities, consider talking to your dentist about sealants and fluoride or antibacterial treatments. The more you commit to keeping your mouth, teeth and gums healthy, the less likely you are to need to see your dentist often. Without regular dental visits, untreated conditions are likely to become painful and difficult to treat in the future. Visiting a dentist regularly can help prevent them completely or at least stop them in their tracks.
In general terms, you should visit the dentist at least once a year but talk to your oral health professional about your particular health situation and oral health problems to determine the right time for you. There are many factors that contribute to good oral health but regular dental visits are an essential part of maintaining healthy teeth and preventing problems. The goal is to have your dentist see you often enough to detect any major problems or issues as soon as possible. Because the problem can be more easily prevented or treated when detected early (such as oral cancer), it's important to go to the dentist regularly.
