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How often should I go to the dentist for a check-up?
The standard recommendation is to visit twice a year for
check-ups and cleanings. This frequency level works well for most people,
although some people with gum disease, a genetic predisposition for plaque
build-up or cavities, or a weakened immune system might need to visit the
dentist more frequently for optimal care.
Also, keep in mind that certain life events -- particularly
those that cause stress or illness -- might cause changes in the mouth or the
development of an infection, and might make more frequent visits to the dentist
necessary. At the other extreme, people who have taken great care of their teeth
and gums, and have gone years without any problems whatsoever might choose to
lengthen the time between visits. Ask us what visitation schedule works best for
your state of dental health.
The three biggest reasons that most strongly support the
twice-yearly visitation schedule are:
- So that your dentist can check for problems that you might not see or feel
- To allow your dentist to find early signs of decay (Decay doesn't become
visible or cause pain until it reaches more advanced stages.)
- To treat any other oral health problems found (Generally, the earlier a
problem is found, the more manageable it is.)
What happens at the typical check-up appointment?
The following oral health care activities usually take place at the typical dental check-up visit:
- Professionals who will treat you -- Two oral health care
professionals - the dentist and the dental hygienist - will likely see you.
The hygienist will conduct an initial oral exam of your gums and teeth, document
any changes in your overall health and medicine use, clean and polish your teeth,
talk to you about caring for your teeth and gums, and answer any questions you
might have about home care products. The dentist will also conduct an oral exam
of your mouth (for signs of oral cancer or other diseases), gums, and teeth;
ask about changes in your overall health or medicine use; review the cleaning
done by the hygienist; diagnose any oral health problems; and make treatment recommendations.
- Cleaning -- Although home-based tooth brushing and flossing help
remove plaque, only a professional cleaning - provided by the dentist or dental
hygienist - can thoroughly clean your teeth and remove the hardened plaque
(called calculus or tartar) that builds up on teeth. The hygienists use a series
of metal hand instruments to clean your teeth.
- Polishing -- After your teeth have been cleaned, they are
polished to remove plaque and stains on the tooth surface. The polish contains
an abrasive substance and fluoride, and is applied using a small rotating rubber
cup or brush attached to the dental hand piece.
- Prevention -- The hygienist might offer additional instructions
for you to follow at home, based on the results of your exam. Don't hesitate
to ask us for instructions about brushing or flossing, or general care questions
about your teeth and gums.
- X-rays -- X-rays might or might not be taken during your check
up. The dentist will consider your clinical examination, dental history, and risk
for developing cavities in determining the frequency for X-rays.
- Treatment recommendations -- If any oral health problems are
identified during your examination, the dentist will make recommendations for
the best next steps. These might include referral to another oral health care
specialist, additional diagnostic tests, or advice to return for restoration
work or additional oral health care.
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