Wondering just how often you should visit your dentist? Teeth and gum health is extremely important. Even if you take excellent care of your mouth, seeing your dentist twice a year is recommended. The dentist will clean your teeth and gums to prevent diseases, and check if there are any complications that can be detected early on to prevent future damage.
Scheduling an appointment every 6 months can do wonders for your mouth and keep everything in tip-top shape. However, some people may need less visits and will do fine with going just once a year. Patients with healthy mouths who have no signs of gum disease, low risk of cavities, and no recurring pains can go less often. But did you know that nearly half of Australians don’t visit the dentist at least once a year? That’s right, 40% of Australians do not see their dentist regularly.
While most people are fine to go to the dentist every 6 months to a year, on the opposite end of the spectrum, high risk patients need to go every 3 to 4 months. Signs of a high risk patient include:
- Smokers
- Pregnant women
- Diabetics
- Elderly patients
- Braces (children or adults)
- Current gum disease
- Weak immune systems
- Cavity prone
- Frequent plaque buildup.
A great benefit to visiting your dentist regularly is that your dentist can see or feel problems you may not be aware that you even had. Many problems aren’t visible or painful until they’re in the advanced stages. Cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer can all be treated effectively if caught at an early and manageable stage. Your dentist can provide a specific treatment plan based on your unique needs.
Make an appointment us to ensure your mouth stays healthy and happy.