When was the last time you had a dentist checkup? If you can’t remember, it’s probably been too long! Dentist checkups are something that many people dread, whether because they need to take the time off work, or they get nervous in the dental chair. <any patients wonder how often they really need to go through the proactive effort of scheduling a dentist checkup. The real answer might disappoint you: it depends!
Dentist checkups allow a dentist to find anomalies in your oral health, check the condition of your teeth and gums, and look for other issues. If you have heard that you need to come in for a dental checkup every six months, that is because that number is how often the average person needs to see a dentist for good oral health! But other factors can either lengthen or shorten your time between dental checkups.
For example, if you have genetically strong teeth, brush and floss regularly, see your dental hygienist regularly for cleanings, and avoid foods that are problematic to your health, you might need a dental checkup every year or even 18-24 months. Keep in mind you should work up to those longer lengths of time and have clean dental checks between visits before lengthening.
On the other hand, if you smoke, chew tobacco, have genetic problem teeth, have dental implants, bridges or veneers, or are more lackadaisical about your dental health, you might need dental checkups every 2,3, or 4 months, depending on your own situation.
If you’d like to learn more about your dental checkup frequency recommendations, call us at Northside Family Dental today.