Seeing the dentist probably isn’t your favorite thing to do. But you know that you’re supposed to go regularly, and you want healthy teeth and a healthy mouth. So how often should you see a dentist? The standard recommendation for how often you should go to the dentist is every six months. If you’re pregnant or have a dental health problem, that might be more often.
So, why every six months? One of the primary reasons is to get a dental cleaning. Even if you floss every day and brush twice a day, there are a lot of spaces and pockets that you can’t see and are difficult to reach. Plaque can build up on your teeth, which can provide an atmosphere conducive to tooth decay. Regular cleanings get rid of plaque and help prevent decay.
Diagnosing and repairing tooth decay is also another important reason to see your dentist. Regular visits can prevent cavities, but if you do happen to get a cavity, the sooner the problem is noticed, the better. Your dentist will check to see whether you have any cavities or tooth decay, and if you do have any cavities, fill them to prevent further damage or the loss of your teeth.
Another reason semiannual dental checkups are important is to diagnose any health problems. Your dentist can diagnose dental health problems like gingivitis and periodontal disease. But your dentist can also be the first to notice signs of other health problems that aren’t dental. There are many health issues, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, Crohn’s disease, osteoporosis, and acid reflux, which have oral symptoms.
Our smiles are important to us as a way we represent ourselves to the world. If you’re not feeling confident about your smile for whatever reason, your six-month checkup is a good time to address those concerns. Your dentist can recommend an orthodontist, perform whitening treatments, and keep your teeth and gums looking healthy.
Has it been a while since you’ve been to the dentist? If it’s time for a checkup and cleaning, schedule an appointment with Mogren Dental.
