How Often Do You Need to Go to a Dentist: Dental Checkups Explained

You often hear that you need dental checkups twice a year. Even if we don’t see this as a regular practice, it is often said that if you get your dental checkup every six months, you can avoid most dental problems.

No one knows where this advice came from so it is still a matter of debate. However, in reality, everyone has different dental hygiene habits and unique oral conditions. Your oral condition and habits should ideally decide how often you should get a dental checkup.

Dental checkups are just routine visits to the dentist where the dentist examines your teeth and generally cleans them. The purpose of a dental visit is to find out any dental issues you may have or be prone to having. Dental treatments and dental checkups are entirely different things because dental treatments are done based on need and dental checkups are done regularly to maintain oral health.

Most studies say that the frequency of dental checkups depends on the individual. Since children are believed to be at a higher risk of tooth decay, they are suggested to see a dentist at least once a year. On the other hand, adults with good oral health and hygiene can go as long as two years without a dental checkup. Teenagers who are low-risk can get a dental checkup every 18 months or so. People with pre-existing health or dental issues may need frequent dental checkups. 

This is the most obvious factor which contributes to your oral health. If you are a smoker and you drink alcohol regularly, you may need to visit your dentist frequently. In the United States, people who consume alcohol are three times more likely to experience permanent tooth loss compared to the national average.

Tobacco is already known to be a contributor to oral diseases and to negatively affect your teeth and overall health. If you improve your lifestyle and adopt healthy practices, you will need fewer trips to the dentist for checkups. Read more