The frequency with which you should visit the dentist depends on your individual oral health, risk factors, and medical history, but general guidelines are as follows:
- For most people , visiting the dentist every six months is a common and sound recommendation. This schedule helps keep teeth clean, allows early detection of problems like cavities and gum disease, and prevents more costly treatments later
- At least once a year is the minimum recommended frequency by the CDC for most people with good oral health
- People with higher risk factors or existing dental issues may need to visit more frequently, such as every 3 to 4 months. This includes those with:
- Tooth decay or gum disease history
- Diabetes or other chronic conditions
- Weakened immune systems
- Regular use of tobacco or alcohol
- Pregnancy
- Individuals with excellent oral health and low risk may be able to extend the interval to once every 12 to 24 months, but skipping regular visits entirely is not advised
- Dentists tailor the recommended frequency based on your oral health status, lifestyle, and risk factors, so it is important to follow your dentist’s personalized advice
In summary, while twice a year dental visits are standard for many, your dentist may suggest more or less frequent visits depending on your specific needs. Regular checkups help maintain oral health, detect problems early, and support overall well-being