How Often Should You See the Dentist?

Oral health plays a vital role in our overall wellbeing, yet many people tend to put off going to the dentist until a problem has already had a chance to develop. The truth is that it’s much healthier (and less expensive) to visit the dentist before an issue even occurs.

So how often should you visit the dentist to stay on top of your oral health? The answer varies a little depending on the patient.

For Children

It’s recommended that children visit the dentist routinely every six months. You should make your child’s first appointment either once they develop their first tooth or before their first birthday, whichever happens first. From there, regular appointments will guarantee that your child’s teeth develop correctly.

Your child will likely be given fluoride treatments at these appointments to make sure their teeth stay healthy and cavity-free. Your child’s dentist will also be able to foresee issues such as crooked teeth or wisdom teeth before they become a problem.

For Adults

The American Dental Association recommends that adults should visit the dentist every six months, as well. This is important, as gum disease and cavities affect most of the adult population. Regular visits can also help identify more serious problems such as oral cancer or damaged teeth before it’s too late to reverse them.

High-Risk Patients

If you’re a high-risk patient, you might want to consider visiting the dentist even more often. High-risk patients include smokers and other tobacco users, people with gum disease, diabetics, pregnant women, and people with a family history of oral issues.

If you’re wondering if it’s time to visit the dentist, your dental office should be able to let you know how long it’s been since your last appointment. Give them a call today to book your next visit!