How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

Although many folks avoid taking action by keeping up with routine appointments, regular dental visits are very important for maintaining your oral health. Oftentimes the problem is fear, but for some people, it’s indifference or ignorance that keeps them away. So the question is, just how often should you go to the dentist?

Going to the dentist

American dentists suggest that patients visit a local dental clinic for preventative care a minimum of once per year. The ideal schedule is twice each year, at six-month intervals to help keep a healthy mouth. During these appointments, a professional teeth cleaning is performed and the dentist conducts a thorough exam, looking for dental caries, periodontal disease, mouth changes and other conditions.

Dental exams and early detection of disease

Serious issues like oral cancer and gum disease will progress if left undetected and untreated. Early detection comes with regular routine exams. Smokers and alcohol drinkers are at a higher risk for both of these dangerous conditions, as well as patients with a genetic predisposition for either disease.

How often should you go to the dentist?

The frequency of necessary dentist appointments various by an individual, but every patient is advised to visit the dentist at least one time each year. Some people need to see the dentist more often:

• Individuals who are at a higher risk due to genetics or outside influences
• Those suffering from a dental condition, depending on the type of problem
• Anyone with an advanced stage oral health condition

Healthy patients with no genetic issues may do well with only one annual dentist appointment. At this time the dentist will offer tips on how to keep your mouth healthy for the long-term.

It is important that smokers, pregnant women, and patients with diabetes, or periodontal disease visit the dentist frequently. These individuals are at a higher risk of developing oral health problems. Some may be advised to receive a dental exam as soon as every four months. It is recommended that patients don’t skip scheduled visits and don’t hesitate to report and noticeable changes in gums or teeth.

Preventative dental care is the key to overall health

Your dental health condition can shift due to many factors, including stress. Unfortunately, the damage is typically not noticeable until the mouth issue has progressed. This is why preventative dental care is vital to maintaining your health, preventing pain, avoiding invasive treatments and saving you money.