The general rule of thumb is dental check-ups are required every six months or so. There is no fast and loose rule, though, because everyone is different. You may need less visits, or you might need to go more frequently.

Your dentist can recommend how frequently you should make appointments based on your oral health. It could be as soon as three months, or even as long as two years. It is entirely dependent on the health of your gums and teeth, and the risk of future problems.

A dental check-up allows the dentist to keep track of dental problems, and other issues in your mouth. For instance, if you have any wounds they will take a picture in order to keep track of it to ensure that it was due to a trauma, as opposed to potential signs of oral cancer.

While many people avoid the dentist, a check-up is rather straightforward. There will a simple examination of your mouth, the gums and your teeth, and they will ask above your general health, and any issues you may have had with your mouth, gums and teeth. Additionally, they will ask about your habits, such as smoking, alcohol, diet, and your habits when it comes to brushing your teeth and flossing.

Once your check-up is complete the dentist will make a recommendation for your next visit. The lower your risk the longer you will be able to wait between appointments. So if you have great oral health you will likely only need to visit once every year or two.

Saying that, you may want to have your teeth cleaned between times, or have an emergency need for a dentist.

There are a number of people who fall into the high risk category, though, of people who should visit their dentist more regularly. That includes smokers, diabetics, pregnant women, people who are prone to cavities, people who have excess plaque build-up, people with gum disease, and people that have a weak immune response.

You may find that during times of illness or stress you have a need to visit the dentist more frequently. The dentist can help you ward off temporary infections.

Provided you are taking good care of your gums and teeth at home, and your dentist doesn’t find any issues for a few years you may find the length of time between visits extended.

What is important to this process is finding a dentist that you are comfortable with. There shouldn’t be any need to avoid or put off trips to the dentist if you have chosen the right dentist for you and your family. Make sure that you’re registered with someone that you can have open discussions with about your oral health.

 

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