For people with busy schedules, it can be tempting to keep putting off those dental appointments. However, waiting too long may mean you’re giving minor issues a chance to grow into full-fledged oral health concerns. Remember, regular dental visits aren’t just about cleaning your teeth – they’re about preventing bigger, more painful (and expensive) problems down the line.
So how often should you visit your dentist? The CDC says at least one visit a year is essential,1 but many experts believe that two visits every year (one every six months) are non-negotiable. The truth is that the ideal schedule may depend on your oral health and needs. Let’s take a closer look at why that timeline exists, what those visits actually do for you, and when you might need to see your dentist more (or less) often. This guide covers how often you should visit your local dentist in Houston, TX, what those visits entail, and when you may need more than the usual number of checkups.
The general rule: One dental checkup every six months
Seeing your dentist every six months gives them a chance to check for tooth decay, spot signs of gum inflammation or disease, and screen for oral cancers. Your checkup may also include professional teeth cleaning, which involves removing hardened, built-up plaque (tartar) that may lead to gum disease. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it can’t be removed with a toothbrush at home. But your dentist can carefully scrape it off, so it poses no further risk.
Regular checkups allow dentists to identify and treat problems like tooth decay before they become severe and painful. Early treatments help preserve your natural teeth and are cheaper than root canals or tooth replacement services.
When you might need more frequent checkups
Not everyone’s mouth is the same, and for some people, twice a year just isn’t enough.
Existing oral health concerns
If you have gum disease, your dentist might recommend coming in every three to four months instead. Gum infections can return quickly, and frequent cleanings may help keep them under control.
Other health problems
Some diseases, like diabetes and Alzheimer’s, are linked to poor oral health.2 People with chronic conditions like diabetes or weakened immune systems may benefit from more dental checkups each year. These conditions may make patients more vulnerable to oral health problems. They may need more checkups to identify and treat oral health issues.
Lifestyle considerations
People who smoke, vape, or use tobacco also face an increased risk of gum disease, dry mouth, tooth decay, and even oral cancer.
Regular checkups enable your dentist to monitor your gums and soft tissues more closely.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy can also temporarily change your gum health, leading to inflammation and bleeding.3 Some women may also experience loose teeth and tooth decay during pregnancy. Dental checkups are crucial to keep these problems in check.
What happens during a dental checkup
Here’s what a routine dental checkup usually includes:
- Medical history review: Your dentist will ask general questions about your oral and medical history. This is a good time to talk about any oral issues you’re facing. You can also disclose any medications or supplements you’re using, any treatments you’re undergoing, or if you’re pregnant or nursing.
- Oral exam: Your dentist checks your mouth for any signs of cavities, gum inflammation, and signs of enamel wear. They’ll also check the soft tissue in your mouth (tongue, cheeks, jaw, palate) for any irregularities that may hint at oral cancer.
- Professional cleaning: The dental hygienist removes any plaque and tartar on your teeth.
- X-rays (if needed): These help spot problems that aren’t visible to the eye, like early decay or bone loss.
You can also use your routine appointments to ask questions about treatments you’re interested in. If you plan to get teeth whitening, bleaching, braces or aligners, even dental implants or dentures in Houston, your dentist will likely be able to provide personalized information, price guides, and recommendations on the best treatment plan for you.
For many people, visiting the dentist every six months helps maintain a healthy and confident smile. But remember that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions in dentistry. Talk to your dentist to understand what your appointment schedule should look like.