Not so long ago if people went to the dentist it was normally because something specific was wrong with their teeth. The question of how often should you visit the dentist was not one that was so often thought about in a pro-active fashion.
The dentist simply tried to fix the problem as well as possible. There were no guidelines provided telling you how often you should arrange an appointment to see your dentist and whether regular visits did any good. So, how often should you visit the dentist?
Prevention rather than cure
Today the attitude towards teeth has changed dramatically.
Not only are people far more concerned about losing their teeth, there is a changing attitude towards one’s facial appearance, too. The dental industry has responded quickly towards this trend. Most dentists now provide a full range of cosmetic procedures as well. But, in general, to maintain healthy teeth, dentists suggest you visit your dentist twice yearly.
This is so your teeth can be monitored for many things. Including any build-up of plaque, signs of tooth decay, signs of receding gums and cavity formation.
Most dentists will take harmless x-rays of your teeth and gums. These x-rays are so any minor cavity formation or other problems can be seen under x-ray before they are visible to the naked eye. A small cavity can be filled which will keep the problem tooth functioning as it should. The dental profession believes that early detection of a tooth related problem saves teeth and prevents painful teeth problems.
If you maintain a regular brushing and flossing routine the chances of needing treatment is far less if you attend a dental appointment once every 6 months. However, this is not always the situation, and problems can occur with your teeth which you didn’t expect. Many problems with your teeth don’t appear visible or inflict pain until the advanced stages have already been reached. Some specific examples include:
- gum disease;
- cavity formation;
- oral cancer.
A regular dental check-up allows your dentist to find any problems with your teeth quickly. Well before any serious dental problem has started to embed itself.
Every 6 months
Generally visiting your dentist every 6 months suits most people. Some people don’t need as many visits as others. While they are a few people around who need to see their dentist more often, people whose risk of developing a cavity or even gum disease appears relatively high may wish to arrange more frequent visits to their dentist. The high-risk group could be:
- women who are pregnant;
- diabetics;
- anyone who already has gum disease;
- people with a weak immune system;
- people who often get cavities occurring or the build up of damaging plaque;
- smokers;
- stress.
How Often Should You Visit The Dentist?
If you brush and floss twice a day and your teeth are cared for and there is no sign of gum disease or cavity.
Then your dentist may well be prepared to tell you to come for an appointment less frequently. The more you show you can look after your teeth, the better. If you care for your teeth well then the more likely the dentist will decide to lengthen the time between appointments.
Do remember that looking after your teeth properly minimises the chance of tooth loss. Seeing your dentist twice a year both suits your health and your teeth.
Ready to see the dentist again now?
Book an appointment with us now to ensure that your teeth and gums remain as healthy as possible and the risk of future problems and issues is kept to a minimum.
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