How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

Twice-yearly dental checkups are a great way to make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy. These routine visits include a professional cleaning to remove plaque buildup, and an exam to identify issues like cavities, gum disease, or anything else that might need attention.

For most adults, visiting the dentist every six months is enough. However, if you’re dealing with problems like gum disease or frequent cavities, your dentist may recommend coming in often. Or, if you’re someone with higher risk factors—like smoking or diabetes—visiting the dentist every three to four months can help you maintain better dental health.

Seniors can also benefit from more frequent dental checkups. Because the risk of dental diseases increases as you age, visiting the dentist three or four times a year can be beneficial. We explain why going to the dentist matters, and how often you should go according to your age.

Four Reasons Why Dental Checkups Are So Important

1: Early Detection

Even if you’re not experiencing any tooth pain or discomfort, you still need to go to the dentist at least twice a year. During your exam, your dentist might detect the early signs of problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer that you might not have noticed. Early treatment means fewer invasive and costly procedures down the road, and it also gives you a better chance of recovery. 

2: Deep Cleaning

Plaque that’s left untreated can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional cleaning. Regular cleanings help prevent tartar buildup that can discolor your teeth and also lead to cavities and gum disease. 

3: Preserving Your Dental Work

If you’ve invested in cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, or crowns, routine checkups will keep your dental work in top condition. If you want your restorations to last as long as possible, make sure to get your teeth cleaned on a regular basis.

4: Overall Health

Your oral health is directly connected to your overall health. Numerous studies have shown links between poor oral health and conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even rheumatoid arthritis. Keeping your mouth healthy can benefit your entire body.  

How Often Should Seniors Go to the Dentist?

As you get older, dental care becomes even more important. Seniors face dental concerns such as tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth much more often than younger adults. Regular checkups are essential in preventing these common issues. 

Seniors may need to visit the dentist more often than twice a year, especially if they have had extensive dental work or need treatment for gum disease. It’s also a good idea to visit the dentist more often if you have:

  • Dental Implants:  Regular checkups help ensure that implants are working well and there’s no risk of rejection.
  • Dentures: Your dentist will make sure that your dentures are fitting properly and that they aren’t causing irritation or infections.
  • Dry Mouth: Many common medications can cause dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Chronic Illness: Diseases like diabetes and arthritis often make dental problems worse, so you may need more frequent cleanings and exams. 

Your Smile Is Our Priority

At Baker Dental of West Branch, we believe that every smile deserves the best care, tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re maintaining a healthy smile with routine checkups or you need treatments like dentures or dental implants, we’re here to keep your oral health in perfect condition.

With our advanced technology, we offer quicker results and a comfortable, personalized experience. If it’s time for your next dental checkup, or if you have any questions about your dental care, schedule a visit with us today. We’ll help you smile brighter and keep your oral health on track.

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels | used under the creative commons license for commercial use.

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