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How Often You Should Go To the Dentist
Most people know they should go to the dentist regularly. But how regularly? There is some confusion about whether you need to go once a year, twice a year, or every few years.
If you are among the many people wondering how often you should go to the dentist, it may surprise you that the answer isn’t always one-size-fits-all. Let’s look at the general recommendation that works for most people—and why your personal oral health may require an adjusted schedule.
The Typical Wisdom: Twice a Year
For most people, the general recommendation is to see the dentist every six months. A twice-a-year visit typically includes a professional cleaning and complete dental exam. These two things are key to keeping your teeth and gums in great shape and your smile bright and healthy.
Sticking to twice-a-year routine visits makes it easier to stay on top of your oral health. Your dentist can monitor changes in your teeth and gums, catching problems like cavities early and helping you maintain your smile.
Why This Works Well for Most People
Even if you brush and floss daily, plaque can still build up in hard-to-reach places. Professional cleanings remove that buildup, helping avoid cavities, gum disease, and other common dental issues.
Regular check-ins also allow your dentist to spot potential concerns before they become lasting problems. A professional can look for things like enamel wear, cracked fillings, or inflammation in your gums. Spotting minor issues early allows your dentist to treat them before they become painful or more expensive to fix.
Oral exams can reveal problems that might not be noticeable right away, like bone loss or hidden cavities. The longer these subtle issues go unchecked, the more complicated and expensive they’ll be to treat later. Keeping to a regular schedule helps to mitigate this.
Think of it as routine maintenance for your mouth. Small checkups now can help you avoid major repairs later on. Plus, a complete dental cleaning feels great! Nothing beats that fresh, polished feeling after a visit to the dentist.
Why You Might Need to See the Dentist More Often
While the twice-a-year rule works for many, some people will benefit from more frequent visits. If you have a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or chronic conditions like diabetes, your dentist may recommend coming in every three to four months.
Your dentist may also recommend more regular visits if you:
- Smoke or use tobacco products
- Are pregnant and hormonal changes are affecting your gums
- Have a weakened immune system
- Are undergoing dental treatments like implants or crowns
If any of these apply to you, let your dentist know—they’ll work with you to create a custom visiting schedule that’s right for you.
Why It’s Never Too Late to Restart Routine Dental Care
We get it—life gets busy. Still, your teeth deserve to be a priority. Missing routine dental appointments can lead to bigger problems. Even if it’s been a long time since your last dental visit, it’s never too late to restart routine dental care.
At Full Heart Dentistry, we welcome you exactly as you (and your teeth!) are, without judgment. Whether you are coming in for your first cleaning in years or you’ve never missed a checkup, we want to help you feel comfortable, supported, and informed about your oral health.
Everyone deserves compassionate, high-quality dental care. Our team will take time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you create a care plan that feels manageable. No pressure, no guilt—just a path towards better oral health!
Let’s Make Your Regular Dental Visits Easier
So there you have it. For most people, visiting the dentist twice a year is ideal. If you need extra oral health support, however, we’ll be happy to help you build a plan that works for your life and your needs.
Whether it’s been six months, six years, or even longer, Full Heart Dentistry is here to help you get back on track. From routine cleanings to personalized restoration plans, we’ll take care of your smile and keep you comfortable in the meantime. That’s the difference of a dentist that cares!
Call Full Heart Dentistry in Rochester today to schedule your next cleaning and exam. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon!