When was the last time you visited the dentist? Six months ago? Last year? If you can’t remember, it’s probably been too long. Many people only go when they have a problem, but how often should you go to the dentist?
Regular check-ups are essential for keeping your teeth and gums in good condition and catching potential issues like cavities or gum disease early. As a general guide, dentists in Bournemouth recommend a check-up every six to twelve months. However, dental care isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the frequency varies based on your individual needs. Your dentist will tailor a schedule according to your oral and general health, which could range from every three months to every two years, depending on your situation.
A check-up allows your dentist to spot any dental problems early and helps you keep your mouth healthy. By addressing issues like cavities or gum disease at an early stage, treatment is often simpler and more effective. Leaving problems untreated could make them harder and more expensive to resolve in the future, so it’s always best to deal with them early.
Beyond treating dental issues, regular check-ups are important for other reasons too. Your dentist can monitor your overall oral health, checking for signs of other conditions such as oral cancer, jaw alignment problems, or even health issues that show symptoms in the mouth, like diabetes. Regular visits also allow your dentist to give you personalised advice on how to improve your at-home care, ensuring your smile stays healthy for years to come.
When you visit the dentist for a check-up, they’ll begin by asking about your dental and general health. They’ll ask if you’ve been experiencing any problems with your teeth or gums. This is an opportunity to tell them if you have any medical conditions (some conditions can affect your oral health), any worries about your oral health or if you’ve been experiencing any pain or sensitivity.
The dentist will take a look at your teeth, gums, and other structures in your mouth, such as your tongue and the inside of your cheeks. When looking in your mouth they’re looking for signs of cavities, tooth wear and gum disease. They’re also screening for oral cancer and assessing if your Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) (it connects your jaw to your skull and allows your jaw to chew and speak) functions properly.
They may take x-rays and some dental clinics, like Smile Stories may take 3D digital images to take a closer look at your teeth and the bone that holds your teeth in place.
Before you leave they will offer you personalised advice tailored to your lifestyle, including tips on diet, smoking, alcohol use, and teeth-cleaning habits, to help maintain your oral hygiene.
The duration of a dental check-up can vary depending on the dentist you visit. While some dentists may conduct quick appointments that last only 5 to 10 minutes, others, like Smile Stories, take a more thorough approach. At Smile Stories, we typically spend 30 to 60 minutes on each check-up to ensure a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.
The frequency of dental visits depends on factors such as your age, the condition of your teeth and gums, and any underlying health issues. When considering how often you should go to the dentist, every six months is a common recommendation. However, if your teeth and gums are in excellent health, your dentist may suggest visiting only once every one or two years. Some people may be invited to have a check-up every 3 months.
If you’re nervous about dental visits, it’s still important to go regularly. The dentists at Smile Stories are experienced with anxious patients and offer options to help you feel more comfortable.
If you have gum disease, frequent cavities, are prone to plaque buildup or have other dental issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits to see them, the hygienist, or other specialists.
People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, or those undergoing orthodontic treatment, might also need to schedule appointments more regularly.
Just like visiting the dentist, it’s generally recommended to see a dental hygienist every six months for a professional cleaning. However, this can vary based on your oral health. For individuals with gum disease or frequent plaque buildup, more frequent visits—every three to four months—might be necessary.
Appointments for dental treatments to fix cavities, chipped teeth, or other issues will be on an ad hoc basis as and when needed.
If you don’t go to the dentist regularly, minor issues like plaque build-up or small cavities can worsen over time, leading to more serious problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, or even tooth loss. Early signs of oral health issues often go unnoticed, but regular check-ups can catch them before they require more invasive and costly treatments.
In conclusion, how often you visit the dentist depends on your individual oral health needs, but regular check-ups are vital for maintaining your oral health and preventing more serious issues down the line. Whether you’re due for a visit or it’s been a while, prioritising your dental care can save you from more invasive treatments later. A personalised check-up schedule, tailored to you, ensures that your teeth and gums stay healthy, while also providing peace of mind about your overall oral well-being. If you’re in Bournemouth, reach out to Smile Stories to book your next appointment and keep your smile bright!