How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

Dentistry used to be more about immediate fixes than preventative care, but with advances in dentistry and technology it has come to be understood that the most effective method of preserving a healthy set of pearly whites is through preventative care. This means seeing your dentist often enough that they can identify, diagnose, and treat any potential problems that may arise.

Going On A Bi-Annual Basis Is Just An Estimate

When dental and health organizations deliberated on a good rule of thumb concerning how often patients should visit their dentist, they estimated that most people should probably visit the dentist on a bi-annual basis (twice per year) in addition to regular brushing, flossing, and use of mouthwash. However the frequency of your specific dental visits will vary based on your oral hygiene and physical health.

Regular Appointments Are A Good Thing

Even if your teeth and gums are pristine, you will still want to make a regular appointment to see a dentist to potentially spot early warning signs of gum disease, cavities, or even cancer. Seeing your dentist regularly ensures that these kinds of problems can be spotted and treated in their infancy before evolving into a more advanced, and threatening, stage.

If you have kids, another reason you may want to book regular appointments with your dentist is to lead by example–going regularly will teach them to develop good oral hygiene habits as they get older.

High Risk Patients Should Go More Often

Patients at a high risk for disease should visit their dentist more often than people who are not at high risk. The rule of thumb is that while the latter group is typically fine making an appointment bi-annually, those who are high risk should book an appointment every three to four months.

High risk patients include: diabetics, people who smoke, people who already have gum disease, people who already have cavities or excessive plaque buildup, and people who are pregnant. Consult your dentist to best assess your level of risk.

The Shifting Schedule

How often one should go to the dentist can vary within their lifetime. For example, a person who is ill may need to see the dentist more often than someone who is not. If you brush, floss, and use mouthwash regularly then your dentist may take notice and recommend a longer stretch of time between visits. Talk to your dentist to determine the best treatment schedule suited to your specific needs.