We can all get a little bit lazy when it comes to oral care, and keeping on top of visits to the dentist more often than not, seem to slip our mind. Some people say once a year is fine, while others seem to be going every few months. You may be wondering exactly how often should you visit the dentist, and this little guide will have you regularly booking appointments and eliminating the confusion.
To start off, there isn’t really a “right” amount of times that one should seek dental care. It depends entirely upon your personal need for a visit. For the most of us, it seems we have a biannual schedule fixed in our heads, where visiting the dentist every 6 months is considered good practice. This idea actually dates back to the 18th century when health standards weren’t as clear, and is now seen as somewhat arbitrary.
The amount of visits per year is subject to your mouth’s health. For those with persistent and reoccurring periodontal problems, more frequent visits are necessary. Rather than focusing on your teeth, the problem lies in the bedrock – your gum tissue and supporting bone. Those with decay issues should see a dentist 3 to 4 times a year for a cleaning. These cleanings will help remove the built-up plaque. Plaque is harmful as it can lead to more serious gum disease which can cause teeth to loosen up and potentially fall out. If you notice blood when you brush your teeth or swollen and sensitive gums, this can be a sign of gum disease and you should consult with your dentist on the best treatment method for you.
For those without serious plaque or decay problems, visiting the dentist just once a year is completely fine and normal. However, the link between oral health and general health is becoming more evident and therefore, it would be best to ask your dentist and doctor for advice on how often you should be making visits.
Outside of necessity, visiting the dentist twice a year serves as a good reminder of proper oral hygiene practices that have the tendency to slip our minds. Reminders to floss, how to care for your teeth, and foods and beverages to avoid, are all a good way to stay on top of your health on your own.
If you find yourself asking, “how often should I visit the dentist” conduct a self-exam and check for plaque build-up or gum disease. Make your estimations based on that, or consult directly with a dentist to determine the best schedule for you. Contact us to book an appointment today.
