regular visit to the dentist should be scheduled every

Here's How Often You Really Need to Go to the Dentist

‌ My teeth feel fine! I don't have time! Sitting in the chair makes me anxious! ‌ Most of us have no trouble coming up with reasons to delay seeing the dentist. But putting off your next appointment (or simply forgetting about it) can set you up for a mouthful of problems.

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So how often should you go to the dentist, really? Here's what the experts have to say, and the convincing reasons to stay on schedule.

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Most adults and children should get dental check-ups every six months, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). Twice-yearly visits can help catch tooth decay or other dental problems early, before it has a chance to cause pain or other problems.

Why Regular Dental Checkups Are Important

The benefits go far beyond getting a new toothbrush and some free toothpaste. "Going to the dentist twice per year allows you to be proactive instead of reactive in regards to your teeth and dental health," says Westchester, New York-based dentist Richard Lipari, DDS .

You'll Catch Problems Sooner, When They're Easier to Treat

You can't always feel problems like tooth decay or gum disease early on — but your dentist can see them. And spotting a problem earlier gives you a chance to address it before it spreads. "When gum disease and cavities are not resolved quickly, they can turn into larger issues such as loose teeth and root canals," Dr. Lipari says.

You'll Keep Your Teeth Healthy

If your pearly whites are already in pristine condition (or close enough), regular dental visits can help keep them that way. That deep-clean brushing and scraping, while not the most enjoyable, is a must for removing calculus (aka tartar) — plaque that builds up and hardens over time.

"Once plaque turns to calculus it's nearly impossible to remove with a toothbrush and requires a dental professional to remove it," Dr. Lipari says. Along with making it hard to clean your teeth, tartar also can lead to gingivitis, which is the early form of gum disease, per the American Dental Association (ADA).

The Dentist Will Check for Oral Cancer

In addition to examining your teeth, your dentist will check your tongue, head and neck for possible signs of oral cancer . It's quick and easy — and most of the time, they won't find anything. But it's an important chance to spot suspicious growths sooner, when they may be easier to treat, per the Mayo Clinic .

You'll Save Money and Time in the Long Run

Dental visits can be costly, especially if you don't have insurance. But the money you'll pay for a cleaning is a lot less than what you'll pay for a filling, root canal or other procedures. "That short appointment can help prevent cavities and gum disease, saving you a lot of time, money and effort in the future," Dr. Lipari says.

Do Certain Factors Mean You Need to Go More (or Less) Frequently?

Most people do well on a two-visit-per-year schedule. But in some cases, you and your dentist may decide it's worth scheduling checkups more often — up to three or four times a year, Dr. Lipari notes.

More frequent visits might be a good idea for:

• ‌ People with existing gum disease or dental problems. ‌ If you have signs of gingivitis (like swollen or bleeding gums or gums that itch ), seeing the dentist more often can help resolve the problem and prevent it from turning into periodontitis, a severe gum infection that can cause tooth loss.
• ‌ Smokers. ‌ Smoking irritates the gums and can eventually cause periodontitis, Dr. Lipari says, so it's a good idea to see your dentist more frequently.
• ‌ People with a weakened immune system: ‌ When your immune system isn't operating at full force, you may be more prone to gum disease and tooth decay.
• ‌ Some pregnant people. ‌ Hormone changes during pregnancy can sometimes cause gingivitis. If you're experiencing gum swelling or bleeding, more frequent visits with the dentist can help get the problem under control, Dr. Lipari says.

What to Expect at a Dental Checkup

If it's been a while since your last chopper check, here's what you can expect.

• ‌ The hygienist will perform a cleaning. ‌ They'll use small metal tools to scrape plaque buildup off of your teeth, floss your teeth and brush your teeth using a special electric toothbrush. Kids might have a fluoride gel or foam applied to their teeth too, which can help prevent tooth decay.
• ‌ You may get X-rays. ‌ X-rays can detect problems that aren't otherwise visible, like early cavities, tooth decay or bone loss. These may not be required at every visit, per the Cleveland Clinic .
• ‌ The dentist will examine your teeth and mouth. ‌ They'll review your X-rays and take a look inside your mouth to see your teeth and gums. They'll also perform an oral cancer check by looking at the insides of your lips, the sides of your tongue and the roof and floor of your mouth.

The Bottom Line

It's a good idea to see the dentist every six months, or more often if you have gum or tooth problems or are at high risk for developing them. Some people with excellent dental hygiene may just be more prone to developing cavities , for instance.

If you're anxious about your visit, let the dentist know so you can find ways to address your discomfort .

Finally, know that there are options if you don't have dental insurance and are having trouble paying for your exam. "Many areas have dental schools where patients can seek out dental treatment at a reduced price, which can be a solution for preventive care," Dr. Lipari says.

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• National Library of Medicine, Medline Plus: "Dental Exam"
• Mayo Clinic: "Oral Cancer Screening"
• American Dental Association: "Plaque"
• Cleveland Clinic: "Dental X-rays"

Is this an emergency? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the National Library of Medicine’s list of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911.

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• Find-a-Dentist

Your Top 9 Questions About Going to the Dentist—Answered!

Whether you are 80 or 8, your oral health is important. Did you know that 100 million Americans fail to see a dentist each year, even though regular dental examinations and good oral hygiene can prevent most dental disease? Here are some frequently asked questions about going to the dentist.

9 Questions Accordion

Regular dental visits are important because they can help spot dental health problems early on when treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable. They also help prevent many problems from developing in the first place. Visiting your dentist regularly is also important because some diseases or medical conditions have symptoms that can appear in the mouth.

• Your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold
• Your gums are puffy and/or they bleed when you brush or floss
• You have fillings , crowns , dental implants , dentures , etc.
• You don’t like the way your smile or teeth look
• You have persistent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
• You are pregnant
• You have pain or swelling in your mouth, face or neck
• You have difficulty chewing or swallowing
• You have a family history of gum disease or tooth decay
• You have a medical condition such as diabetes , cardiovascular disease , eating disorders or are HIV positive
• Your mouth is often dry
• You smoke or use other tobacco products
• You are undergoing medical treatment such as radiation, chemotherapy or hormone replacement therapy
• Your jaw sometimes pops or is painful when opening and closing, chewing or when you first wake up; you have an uneven bite
• You have a spot or sore that doesn’t look or feel right in your mouth and it isn’t going away

Yes. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you can still have dental health problems that only a dentist can diagnose. Regular dental visits will also help prevent problems from developing. Continuity of care is an important part of any health plan and dental health is no exception. Keeping your mouth healthy is an essential piece of your overall health. It’s also important to keep your dentist informed of any changes in your overall health since many medical conditions can affect your dental health too.

The dentist or hygienist will ask about your recent medical history, examine your mouth and decide whether or not you need x-rays. Depending on your treatment plan, the hygienist may use a special dental instruments to check your gums for gum disease. Your dentist will evaluate your overall dental health and conduct an oral cancer screening by holding your tongue with gauze, checking it and your whole mouth, then feeling your jaw and neck.

There is no one-size-fits-all dental treatment. Some people need to visit the dentist once or twice a year; others may need more visits. You are a unique individual, with a unique smile and unique needs when it comes to keeping your smile healthy.

The American Dental Association offers these suggestions in finding a dentist:

• Visit ADA Find-a-Dentist to search dentists in your area. 
• Ask family, friends, neighbors or co-workers for recommendations. 
• Ask your family physician or local pharmacist.
• If you're moving, your current dentist may be able to make a recommendation.
• Call or write your state dental society.

You may want to call or visit more than one dentist before making your decision. Dental care is a very personalized service that requires a good relationship between the dentist and the patient. During your first visit, you should be able to determine if this is the right dentist for you.

Consider the following:

• Is the appointment schedule convenient for you? 
• Is the office easy to get to from your home or job? 
• Does the office appear to be clean, neat and orderly?
• Was your medical and dental history recorded and placed in a permanent file?
• Does the dentist explain techniques that will help you prevent dental health problems? Is dental health instruction provided?
• Are special arrangements made for handling emergencies outside of office hours? (Most dentists make arrangements with a colleague or emergency referral service if they are unable to tend to emergencies.) 
• Is information provided about fees and payment plans before treatment is scheduled? 
• Is your dentist a member of the ADA? All ADA member dentists voluntarily agree to abide by the high ethical standards reflected in the member code of conduct . You and your dentist are partners in maintaining your oral health. Take time to ask questions and take notes if that will help you remember your dentist's advice.

If you’re looking to find a dentist you may notice that while most are listed with a “DDS”, some may be listed as “DMD”. They both mean the same thing—your dentist graduated from an accredited dental school. The DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) and DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) are the same degrees. Dentists who have a DMD or DDS have the same education. The level of education and clinical training required to earn a dental degree, and the high academic standards of dental schools are on par with those of medical schools. Upon completion of their training, dentists must pass both a rigorous national written exam and a state or regional clinical licensing exam in order to practice. In order to keep their licenses, they must meet continuing education requirements for the remainder of their careers so that they may stay up to date on the latest scientific and clinical developments.

Here are some tips to help you take care of your smile:

• Healthy habits . Brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing daily are essential for everyone, no matter how unique your mouth is. It’s the best way to fight tooth decay and gum disease.
• Build a relationship. Continuity of care is an important part of any health plan and dental health is no exception. When your dentist sees you regularly, he or she is in a good position to catch oral problems early. For instance, catching gum disease  when it’s still reversible, or cavities when they are small and are more easily treated.
• Maintain. Keeping your mouth healthy is an essential piece of your overall health. It’s important to keep your dentist informed of any changes in your overall health as well.
• Talk about it! Only your dentist can determine what the best treatment plan is for you. Have questions about your oral health or certain dental procedures? Start a conversation. Ask your dentist to explain step-by-step. Dentists love having satisfied, healthy patients.

North Atlanta Family Dentistry

• Johns Creek: (678) 474-4917
• Cumming: (770) 781-0888
• Johns Creek (678) 474-4917
• Cumming (770) 781-0888

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits: How Often Should You See the Dentist?

Maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall well-being. One of the most essential aspects of oral care is regular visits to the dentist. These visits not only help prevent dental issues but also ensure early detection and treatment of any problems that may arise.

Why Is It Important to Visit the Dentist Regularly ?

Visiting the dentist regularly offers several benefits for your oral health. Here are some key reasons why going to the dentist is important:

Prevention of Dental Issues

Regular dental checkups prevent dental problems such as tooth decay and gum diseases. During these visits, a dental professional can thoroughly examine your teeth and gums, identifying any signs of potential issues. Early detection allows for timely intervention, preventing the progression of dental conditions.

Professional Oral Care

Dental professionals possess the knowledge, skills, and tools to provide optimal oral care. During the visit, you can receive a deep cleaning that removes dental plaque and tartar buildup, which can keep your teeth and gums healthy. Additionally, dental professionals can offer personalized advice on maintaining proper oral hygiene and suggest appropriate oral care products.

Detection of Oral Health Issues

Regular dental visits enable the early detection of oral health issues that may go unnoticed otherwise. Dentists can identify signs of dental decay, periodontal disease , and other oral conditions. Prompt treatment can prevent further damage and more extensive interventions in the future.

Prevention of Tooth Loss

Neglecting regular dental visits can increase the risk of tooth loss. Dental professionals can identify signs of tooth decay, structural damage, or infections that may lead to tooth loss if left untreated. By addressing these issues promptly, you can preserve your pearly whites and maintain a healthy smile.

Oral Health Education

Dental visits provide an opportunity to learn about proper oral care practices. Dentists and dental hygienists can educate patients on the importance of brushing, flossing, and maintaining good oral hygiene habits. They can also address any questions or concerns regarding your dental health.

What Are the Consequences of Neglecting Dental Visits?

Neglecting regular dental visits can have several consequences for oral health and well-being. Here are some key consequences of ignoring routine checkups:

• Increased risk of tooth decay. Without regular dental cleanings , plaque and tartar buildup can accumulate on your teeth, leading to tooth decay. Cavities can develop, causing pain and discomfort.
• Gum disease and periodontal issues. Neglecting dental visits can increase the risk of gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. These conditions can cause inflamed and bleeding gums, bad breath, and even tooth loss if left untreated.
• Bad breath. Poor oral hygiene due to neglecting dental visits can contribute to chronic bad breath or halitosis. This can impact your self-confidence and social interactions.
• Tooth loss. Ignoring dental check-ups can result in untreated dental issues, increasing the likelihood of tooth loss. Advanced gum disease, decay, or infections can lead to the need for extractions.
• Oral health-related complications. Neglected oral care can have implications beyond the mouth. Studies have shown a connection between poor dental health and systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes.
• Increased costs. By neglecting regular dental visits, minor dental issues that could have been caught early may progress into more severe problems. This can lead to more complex and costly dental treatments in the future.
• Reduced overall well-being. Oral health is interconnected with overall health and well-being. Neglecting dental care can impact your ability to eat, speak clearly, and maintain good nutrition, affecting your overall quality of life.

It is important to note that these consequences may vary depending on individual factors and overall oral health status. Regular dental visits, combined with proper oral hygiene practices, are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing these potential consequences.

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist ?

The frequency of dental visits depends on various factors, including your oral health needs. While it’s commonly recommended to see a dentist twice a year, this may not apply to everyone. Some individuals may require more frequent visits, while others may need fewer.

The American Dental Association suggests that adults visit their dentist at least once a year for a routine check-up. Additionally, a study published in the Australasian Journal of Public Health found that regular six-month check-ups were associated with improved oral health outcomes in schoolchildren.

The question “How many times should you visit the dentist?” is best consulted with your family dentist. They can evaluate your oral health status, assess your risk factors, and recommend an appropriate schedule tailored to your needs.

Should You Go to the Dentist Every 6 Months ?

Yes, it is generally recommended to visit the dentist every 6 months for routine dental check-ups and cleanings. This is a commonly suggested guideline that helps maintain good oral health and prevent potential dental problems. Regular dental visits allow for early detection of dental issues, professional teeth cleaning, preventive care , and overall oral health monitoring.

While individual circumstances may vary, this guideline can help ensure optimal oral health and prevent future dental issues.

Prioritize Your Oral Health With Regular Dental Visits at North Atlanta Family Dentistry

Regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. These visits not only help prevent dental issues but also ensure early detection and treatment of any problems that may arise. While visiting the dentist twice a year is a common recommendation, the frequency may vary based on individual needs.

Consult with North Atlanta Family Dentistry today to determine the ideal frequency of dental visits for you. Remember, taking care of your oral health is essential for a healthy smile and overall well-being.

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Why Are Dentist Check-Ups Scheduled Every 6 Months?

It is widely known that dental check-ups are supposed to be every 6 months for both adults and children, and most professional organizations including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend so. However, have you ever wondered why it’s exactly 6 months and not 4, 8, or 10? Ever asked yourself why it has to be twice per year?

Origins of the 6 Month Check-Up

It’s not quite clear how the 6-month dental check-up (officially called a dental prophylaxis) rule came to be, but most people who have looked into this issue agree that it is not based on scientific findings. One of the greatest legends about how the 6-month check-up interval gained ground is based on the fabrication of a toothpaste advert by an advertising genius called Claude Hopkins in the early 1900s.

Mr. Hopkins was an advertising guru who created crafty marketing campaigns that massively boosted the sales of Schiltz beers and the Pepsodent toothpaste. He made the Pepsodent toothpaste one of the most popular brands in the world within 5 years by associating tooth brushing (which was rare at the time) with health and beauty. In the Pepsodent marketing campaign, Hopkins created a catchphrase that read “Use Pepsodent every day – see your dentist twice a year” that caught on and formed the basis of dental check-up intervals to date.

6 Months Is an Arbitrary Time Frame…Sort Of

Although 6 months has since become the industry standard for dental prophylaxis intervals, it may not be the not the optimum interval for everyone. It’s just that it has become self-fulfilling and it’s what people now expect. Plus, the insurance industry has incorporated it into its system and typically covers 2 dental check-ups and cleanings per year.

However, different people have different genetics, diets, and dental care habits. Some people could get away with 8 months before the next dental visit (not recommended), while others might need a dental appointment every 4 months.

Patients that require dental check-ups regularly (say every 3 to 4 months) often have periodontal diseases such as gum infections or are highly susceptible to cavities. If these infections are not spotted and treated in time, they could progress to become severe dental problems. A minority of dental patients could go slightly longer than 6 months without an appointment and maintain healthy teeth, but the risk is high and the benefits of delaying a check-up so scant that the 6 month period is typically set as the maximum time frame between check-ups. This is the policy we adopt at Bunker Hill Dentistry.

A Year is Too Long to Wait

While 6 months is not the ideal interval for everyone, a year is certainly too long for a majority of people. Within a year, a filling can turn into a root canal, and a gum treatment can turn into gum graft. You can’t afford to wait a year if you don’t fall into the “lucky” category. Mouths are quite unpredictable, and it doesn’t take long for a problem to pop up and become potentially dangerous. The sooner a dentist catches the issue, the simpler it is to treat it.

Also, people can develop bad habits – both dental and non-dental such as smoking – in 6 months, or symptoms from an existing bad habit that weren’t present in the last check-up may then develop and worsen if left for a year. Patients could also start taking medication, and most medicines are known to increase the risk of plaque buildup and cavities formation.

Depending on your dental habits, the chemistry of your mouth, and the last findings of your tooth examination, it’s essential to have a check-up after 6 months to establish the state of your dental health.

Good Reasons for Regular Visits

Here are a few reasons why regular dental visits are recommended:

1. Prevent Plaque And Tartar Buildup

Brushing and flossing your teeth diligently (2 to 3 times a day) is one of the best ways to maintain excellent dental health. Brushing and flossing comprise 2 of the 5 core practices for healthy teeth and gums which we make clear in our caring for teeth guide (we’ve also compiled a list of secret dental tips that go beyond core practices for strong teeth and gums). However, certain areas of the mouth simply can’t get adequate cleaning with brushing and flossing. Plaque and tartar accumulates in these areas over time and need to be removed every 6 months for good oral health. If they are not eliminated, they can lead to tooth decay and gum disease which is not something to be desired.

2. Discovery Of Potentially Dangerous Dental Problems

Frequent dental check-ups allow a dentist to spot potential problems early on so that they can find ways to prevent serious health issues in the long-run. They can carry out dental X-rays on your teeth and gums to discover problems that are not visible to the naked eye. They can also undertake oral cancer checks, and if they find any traces of the disease take appropriate treatment action fast to increase the chances of full recovery.

3. Save Money

Identifying and treating dental-related problems early can save you plenty of money in the long-run. Regular dental visits can help detect potential dental issues early when they don’t require expensive treatment. Dental check-ups and cleaning also reduce your chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease, which are likely to require costly treatment such as tooth surgery. Plus, fillings and sealants are much cheaper than root canals and tooth extractions.

4. Keep a healthy, beautiful smile

A healthy smile incredibly boosts one’s confidence, but it cannot come by with poor dental health. According to a study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a huge number of people (96% of all adults interviewed), think that an attractive smile makes a person more good-looking. Regular dental visits guarantee you a wide range of treatments and procedures to clean, whiten and brighten your teeth; ensuring your smile is one of the best among those around you.

All in all, the importance of visiting a professional dentist regularly cannot be understated. The industry standard requires you to visit them twice per year, but depending on the state of your dental health a physician will recommend whether to lower that frequency for best results.

Ann Le has been successfully managing dental practices since 1990. She is currently Practice Manager at Bunker Hill Dentistry in Houston, TX which she runs with her husband Dr. Tri M Le.

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How Often Should You Schedule Regular Visits To The Dentist?

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During each visit, there are a few things you can expect.

You will receive an in-depth physical exam of your mouth. The dental hygienist will use a mirror to closely examine your teeth and gums. They are looking for signs of gingivitis or any other dental concerns that could impact your oral health in the future.

They will then use a small tool called a scaler to remove tartar and plaque that has built up. Even with consistent brushing and flossing, they will still find some stubborn stuff to remove. 

The next step is brushing with an electric toothbrush using specialized toothpaste with a gritty texture. This helps give an extra boost of cleaning. Your teeth will then be flossed and followed by a rinse. 

If you wish, you can also receive a fluoride treatment . This will help keep your teeth strong and resist or delay painful cavities.

While many people do great with the six-month rule, there are some who need a little extra attention. 

There are a few medical conditions that will also impact your teeth and gums. Individuals who have those conditions need to visit their family dentist more often. 

Those with diabetes , existing gum disease, a lowered immune system, or those prone to experiencing a high cavity rate should stay in touch with their dentist more than twice a year.

Just because you know you should book a dentist appointment, doesn’t mean you look forward to you. Many people suffer from dental anxiety . 

The first step is to talk to your dentist about your concerns. This is a common fear, but many soon realize it is not as bad as you think.

There are options for reducing pain and even strategies for taking a break and walking through the process so you will understand. More dental offices are also now designed to be more welcoming and relaxing. 

Don’t focus on the number of regular visits to the dentist you need to make. Instead, focus on having a healthy mouth. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene habits will help give you a healthy mouth, teeth, and gums throughout your life. 

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How often should I see my dentist?

Why are regular dentist appointments important?

You consider yourself to have great oral hygiene and regularly brush and floss your teeth to keep your mouth clean. Your excellent oral hygiene habits may lead you to wonder if you still need to visit your dentist on a regular basis. The answer is yes! Even if you take good care of your teeth and gums at home, it’s still important that you regularly visit your dentist who is professionally trained to check for problems you may not see or feel yourself.

The truth is, many dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer don’t become visible or cause pain until they are in the more advanced stage, which makes treatment and follow-up all the more extensive. Even if you are healthy today, your risk for dental disease can change over time and can be affected by factors like illness, diet changes, new medication usage, and more. So why risk it?

The frequency at which you visit your dentist should be based on several factors. This includes your current oral health condition, individual oral hygiene habits, general health status and medical conditions, as well as your own self and dentist assessed risk for oral health problems.

Assessing your risk for dental disease

When evaluating your risk for dental disease, you should consider all personal health, lifestyle, and genetic factors that contribute to your risk-level. Risk factors include a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates, poor oral habits, lack of exposure to fluoride containing water, smoking or use of other tobacco products, heavy alcohol or recreational drug use, and medical conditions including diabetes, Sjogren’s Syndrome, and head and neck cancers.

Delta Dental offers a free online risk assessment tool called LifeSmile ScoreTM that helps you determine your level of risk for things like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. The tool prompts you with a series of questions about family history and current health status and habits and analyzes your answers to reveal your oral health risk score. You can then print your results and share them with your dentist who can factor those scores in with his or her clinical exam and help you develop a customized oral health plan and dental recall visit schedule.

Regularly scheduled visits

The evidence for the ideal interval for routine dental exams is not clear cut, but once or twice a year has been the general recommendation in the U.S. for many years. Remember – even if you believe your mouth to be in perfect health, you should still get a professional cleaning and checkup to ensure everything is healthy and on track!

Other factors to consider

Here are some other factors to consider when you think about how often you should see a dentist.

• Changes to dental health

Have you recently had any changes in your dental health? Certain things to take note of are chipped, cracked or shifting teeth, swollen or bleeding gums, persistent tooth pain and sensitivity to cold or hot beverages. Should any of these instances occur, be sure to check in with your dentist. 1

• Dental work & upkeep

When you receive dental work like a filling, crown, or oral surgery, there’s a chance you will need to go back to the dentist for follow-up appointments to ensure your teeth and gums are healing well. This usually involves a quick evaluation by your dentist and also gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you have about the recent dental work. Something to note – if you have active periodontal (gum) disease, you may need more frequent appointments to manage this condition. These appointments may occur every 2-6 months. 2

• Dental visits for kids

Generally, children should get their first oral exam as soon as their first baby tooth comes in or by their first birthday. As the child gets older, dental checkups should occur as often as your dentist advises, with a typical recommendation of every six months to a year.

• Dental visits for adults

For adults, the recommended frequency for dental check-ups varies. In most studies, however, regular attenders are considered to be those individuals that visit the dentist at least once a year. The frequency at which you visit the dentist will depend on your own oral health needs, and if you are prone to cavities, gum problems, or oral health issues. How quickly one develops stain and dental plaque on their teeth will also vary from person to person, and some individuals may benefit from a more frequent cleaning schedule should their teeth be more prone to staining or calculus build-up.

Additionally, individuals who have dental insurance typically visit the dentist more often than those who do not. And, companies with wellness programs will often offer incentives for employees to accomplish certain preventive health steps each year. Companies recognize that cost savings can occur for the company and employee by preventing disease.

High risk groups

The following groups may need to see the dentist more frequently, as oral health issues are more likely to arise in:

• Pregnant women
• Persons with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, head and neck cancers, HIV/AIDS, and others
• People with current gum disease
• People with a weak immune response to bacterial infection
• People who tend to get cavities or build up plaque
• People who suffer from dry mouth
• Older adults

Regardless of how you feel about your overall oral health, it is important to see a dentist regularly. Check in with your dentist for more information on how they assess your risk for oral disease and what their recommendation is for your individualized exam and cleaning schedule.

1 Your Top 9 Questions About Going to the Dentist-Answered! (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/dental-care-concerns/questions-about-going-to-the-dentist

2 Periodontitis. (2018, March 6). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354479

• The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR DENTAL VISITS

How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

What goes on during a dentist visit.

Have you ever wondered why the American Dental Association and your dentist recommend you come back every six months? It’s because regular dental visits are essential for the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums. And in between those examinations, it’s important that you work to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. If you need additional help, your dentist may even suggest more frequent visits.

Checking your teeth for tooth decay is just one part of a thorough dental examination. During your checkup appointment, your dentist (or dental hygienist) will likely evaluate the health of your gums, perform a head and neck examination (to look for anything out of the ordinary) and examine your mouth for any indications of oral cancer, diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Don’t be surprised if your dentist also examines your face, bite, saliva and movement of your lower jaw joints (TMJs). Your dentist or dental hygienist will then clean your teeth and stress the importance of you maintaining good oral hygiene at home between visits.

Many dentists will pay special attention to plaque and tartar. This is because plaque and tartar can build up in a very short time if  good oral hygiene is not practiced between visits. Food, beverages and tobacco can stain teeth as well. If not removed, soft plaque can harden on the teeth and irritate the gum tissue. If not treated,  plaque can lead to  gum disease .

During your regularly scheduled dental appointments, your dentist will likely look at your gums, mouth, tongue and throat. There are several routine parts to a dental examination.

The Head And Neck Examination Your dentist will start off by:

• Examining your face
• Examining your neck
• Checking your lymph nodes
• Checking your lower jaw joints (TMJs)

The Clinical Dental Examination Next, your dentist assesses the state of your teeth and gums by:

• Examining the gums
• Looking for signs of  gum disease
• Checking for loose teeth
• Looking at the tissues inside of your mouth
• Examining your tongue
• Checking your bite
• Looking for visual evidence of tooth decay
• Checking for broken teeth
• Checking for damaged fillings
• Looking for changes in the gums covering teeth
• Evaluating any dental appliance you have
• Checking the contact between your teeth
• Taking X-rays

The Dental Cleaning During the final part of the dental visit, your dental professional cleans your mouth using these methods:

• Checking the cleanliness of your teeth and gums
• Removing any plaque and tartar
• Polishing your teeth
• Flossing between your teeth
• Reviewing recommended brushing and flossing techniques

Once your examination and cleaning have been performed, they’ll tell you about the health of your teeth and gums and then make any additional recommendations. It’s important that you see your dentist every six months and that they give you routine examination and cleaning. Remember, by seeing your dentist on a regular basis and following daily good oral hygiene practices at home, you are more likely to keep your teeth and  gums healthy.

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How Often Should I See My Dentist for Dentures?

It’s important to visit the dentist regularly when you have dentures, and understanding how often that should be done is key. For most people with dentures, visiting the dentist twice a year, or more frequently if recommended by your dentist, is ideal for ensuring your dentures stay comfortable and functioning properly.

It’s important for everyone to maintain good oral health, but this is especially true for those who wear dentures. This article will discuss why dentist visits are essential for denture wearers, and how often dentist visits should be scheduled.

Having dentures is a great way to restore the look and feel of natural teeth, but like natural teeth, they need regular care. Visiting your dentist in Springfield every six months or more frequently if recommended by your dentist is key to ensuring your dentures remain comfortable and functioning properly.

Why dentist visits are essential for denture wearers?

Dentist visits are critical for denture wearers for a number of reasons. During these regular appointments, the dentist can check that your dentures fit correctly, assess whether your mouth is still healthy underneath them, look out for any signs of infection, and recommend any necessary treatments or adjustments. They can also provide tips on cleaning and caring for your dentures, as well as advice on what to do if you experience any discomfort while wearing them.

How often dentist visits should be scheduled?

It is recommended that people with dentures visit the dentist twice a year or more frequently if recommended by your dentist. During these appointments, the dentist will check the fit of your dentures and make any necessary adjustments to ensure they remain comfortable. Regular dentist visits also help keep your mouth healthy and reduce the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues. It’s also important to remember that dentures should be removed nightly and cleaned regularly. 

Signs that it is time for a dentist visit

Even if you are following the dentist’s recommended schedule for dentist visits, there may be times when your dentures need to be seen by a dentist sooner. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, it is important to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible:

• Loose fitting dentures

• Pain or discomfort when wearing dentures

• Irritation or sores in your mouth

• Bad breath

• Excessive saliva production

• Difficulty chewing or speaking with dentures

Dentist visits are essential for denture wearers to ensure their dentures remain comfortable and functioning properly. It is recommended that dentist visits are scheduled twice a year or more frequently if recommended by your dentist. It is also important to keep an eye out for any signs that indicate it may be time for a dentist visit, such as loose fitting dentures , pain or discomfort when wearing dentures, irritation or sores in the mouth, bad breath, excessive saliva production, or difficulty chewing or speaking with dentures.

Kelly Dental – Dentist Springfield MO is located at 3424 S. Culpepper Ct, Springfield, MO 65804, United States. We are currently accepting new patients, and you can schedule an appointment by calling 417-881-1213 .

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