Have you ever wondered just how often you should visit the dentist? Many people don’t realize that the answer to this question is every six months, unless otherwise specified by your local Kingwood dentist. It is estimated that only 65% of adults had a dental exam or cleaning in the past year. Understanding what a trip to the dentist is and how frequently you should be going can help you make more informed decisions when it comes to your oral health.
Why Should You Visit the Dentist?
One of the biggest reasons you should be seeing your dentist for regular visits is because the early detection of oral health problems allows the dentist to be able to catch them before they escalate into other issues, possibly affecting other aspects of your overall health. For example, ignoring untreated cavities or unnoticed gum disease may lead to heart disease and/or diabetes. As such, practicing and maintaining good oral health is key for your overall health.
Regular dental appointments ensure your teeth and gums are healthy and clean. Dentists and hygienists can effectively remove tartar and plaque that builds up and hardens over time. When plaque turns into calculus, it cannot be removed with a toothbrush, so a dental professional must remove it. This also gives the dentist a chance to check for oral cancer and other issues in the mouth. Regular six-month visits and cleanings also allow you to save time and money in the long run by helping prevent tooth decay, which can require fillings, root canals or additional procedures.
Who Should Visit the Dentist More Frequently?
While the general rule is dental visits every six months, there are times when a dentist may ask a patient to schedule appointments more frequently. Those that may need to see a dentist more than twice a year include the following people:
- Individuals with gum disease
- People with signs of gingivitis
- Smokers, as smoking irritates the gums which can lead to periodontitis
- Anyone with a weakened immune system as they are more likely to get gum disease and tooth decay
What Are Some Signs That You Need Immediate Dental Care?
Outside of your regularly scheduled visit, some symptoms might require immediate attention from a dental professional. Some of these symptoms are constant pain in your teeth, swelling, bleeding from your gums, loose teeth, jaw pain, changes in bite alignment, or bad breath that does not get better with improved oral hygiene. Waiting for an appointment while you have symptoms like these can lead to even more serious complications, so it’s important that you contact a dentist sooner rather than later.
What Should You Expect During a Checkup at the Dentist?
Every checkup can be different depending on your needs and the state of your oral health, but generally you can expect them to follow these steps:
- X-rays – The hygienist will likely do x-rays to give the dentist a good view of your teeth and identify any cavities or other areas of concern.
- Teeth Cleaning – The dental hygienist will then take you to an exam room and clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar from the teeth and just below the gumline. They will then polish the teeth.
- Dental Exam – The dentist will come in next and begin the examination. They will use a tool to measure any pockets below the gumline and will also do a visual inspection for any signs of oral cancer or other issues.
The dentist will advise you of when they would like you to schedule your next appointment, and if there is anything to be concerned about, they will share that with you and advise you on the best course of action.
Contact Your Local Kingwood Dentist Today
While some people may think that visiting the dentist every six months is too much, once they begin this routine, they quickly find that their oral health has improved. Another advantage to this schedule is catching any signs of tooth decay or other oral health issues early, which can save a lot of time and money. Reach out to your local Kingwood dentist today to come up with your personalized schedule that works best for you.
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