How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

Regular visits for dental care are essential for preventing oral health problems. Dental treatment is also crucial for your overall health as gum disease, tooth decay, and bacterial buildup can cause other health issues, including respiratory infections and cardiovascular disease.

Visiting a dentist regularly allows them to catch any issues that may arise and provide oral care before conditions worsen. Despite all this information, you may still wonder why dental appointments are important and how often is enough. Dentists are supposed to tell you that you should see them, but is it actually crucial to your lifetime oral health and smile?

We will explain more about proper dental care and the frequency you should go to prevent further health complications that affect more than just your teeth.

Why Dental Care is Essential

Our office believes dental visits are key to your overall oral health now and as you grow older. In order to understand this, here are a few procedures dentists perform to achieve your best smile:

Oral Exam

At each visit, your dentist will conduct an oral exam to assess your oral health. When they examine your teeth, they may use x-rays, mirrors, and tools to see areas of your mouth that need extra care and attention.

Cleaning

Each visit should include a professional cleaning and polishing that will keep your teeth in perfect working condition. Even though you may brush and floss regularly, receiving a dental cleaning to remove plaque build-up with dental tools will ensure your teeth stay as healthy as possible.

Screening

In addition to examining and cleaning, your dentist will screen your mouth for health conditions such as gum disease or gingivitis, tooth decay, oral cancer, or cysts. Catching these conditions in the early stages is essential to preventing further complications.

How often should I see a dentist?

Now that you know why you should regularly receive a dental check, it is equally important to know the frequency of which you should receive them. The typical recommendation is that you should visit a dentist every six months. Most dental insurances will cover a cleaning visit twice a year to meet this requirement. Two visits a year helps to keep your teeth and gums clean and your mouth healthy.

It is important to follow your dentist’s specific advice on how often you should seek a dental checkup as special conditions may call for more frequent visits. If you experience any of the following conditions, your dentist may recommend you schedule visits between six-month cleanings, possibly every 3-4 months.

Pregnancy

Expectant mothers experience fluctuating hormones that may make them more susceptible to bacteria buildup and cavities. This bacteria can also affect the pregnancy and unborn baby if not treated promptly. Therefore, pregnant mothers should schedule a dental visit and follow their provider’s advice.

Heart Conditions

Oral bacteria can migrate to the heart and cause cardiovascular problems. It is common knowledge in the dental community that poor oral health leads to higher rates of heart problems when compared to those with good oral hygiene. Therefore if you already suffer from a heart condition, your dentist may advise that you visit more regularly.

Cancer or Diabetes Patient

Certain cancer medications are known to increase oral conditions such as dry mouth. Dry mouth is also a symptom of diabetes. Dry mouth is not only a nuisance but can cause further issues such as tooth decay. If you suffer from either of these conditions, it is vital to discuss your symptoms, medications, and side effects with your dentist to develop the proper treatment plan.

Schedule a Visit Today

Dental care visits, although ambiguous to some as to why they are important or how often you should go, are life-changing to your overall health. From maintaining a fresh smile to preventing future conditions such as respiratiory infections and cardiovascular disease, seeing your dentist will keep you healthy and happy.

If you have not seen a dentist within the last six months, it would be our pleasure to see you in our office. At East Valley Dental Professionals, your comfort and oral health are our top priorities. We maintain a friendly, relaxed, and low-pressure environment and enjoy taking the time to educate our patients about proper oral health care. Call today at 480-838-3033 to schedule a visit with us.