The standard recommendation is to visit your dentist twice a year for check-ups and cleanings.
The standard recommendation is to visit your dentist twice a year for check-ups and cleanings. This frequency level works well for most people, although some people with Periodontal (gum) disease or a weakened immune system might need to visit the dentist more frequently for optimal care. The same applies to people with genetic predispositions for plaque build-up and/or cavities.
Also, keep in mind that certain life events, particularly those that cause stress or illness, may cause changes in the mouth or the development of an infection. This might make more frequent visits to the dentist necessary. At the other extreme, people who have taken great care of their teeth and gums, and have gone years without any problems whatsoever might choose to lengthen the time between visits. Ask your dentist or your hygienist what visitation schedule works best for your state of dental health.
The four biggest reasons that most strongly support the twice-yearly visitation schedule are:
- So that your dentist or hygienist can check for problems that you might not see or feel.
- To allow your dentist to find early signs of decay (decay doesn’t become visible or cause pain until it reaches more advanced stages.)
- To allow early detection of periodontal (gum) disease (early diagnosis and treatment significantly increase the success of periodontal therapy.)
- To treat any other oral health problems found (generally, the earlier a problem is found, the more manageable it is.)
