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To maintain a healthy smile, it is extremely important to see a dentist from time to time. Before you can do that, though, you need to find a dentist you don’t mind paying a regular visit to. Having your teeth maintained and undergoing dental procedures when necessary is difficult enough without a good dentist. Once you’ve found someone you’re comfortable with, it’s a good idea to start building a dentist-patient relationship so they can closely monitor your care.
The question that remains at hand now is how often you need to visit your dentist. Keep reading to learn more!
How frequently do I need to visit the dentist?
The general rule of thumb is to visit the dentist's office twice a year for your dental exams and professional cleanings. It doesn't matter if you brush twice or thrice a day—it's important to get a cleaning done every six months to maintain oral hygiene and spot any dental issues before they grow serious. No two people have the same kind of teeth, and some teeth may require more care than others do.
So how often should you see a dentist? There is no fixed answer to that question. Only a dentist will be able to decide how frequently you need to see him and the treatment you need to keep your teeth in a good state. The frequency of your visits might also change at various stages of your life depending on your health and other factors, such as pregnancy.
A regular dental exam involves your dentist checking for signs of oral problems, such as cavities and gum diseases. When you get check-ups done on a regular basis, your dentist can catch these symptoms early and treat them before they become more serious. The other big advantage of regular visits is that it also sets a good example for your children. They will learn early in their lives that routine care and check-up is important for lifelong dental health.
How often should you visit if you need additional care?
You might need to see your dentist for reasons other than regular checkups. Any pain or conditions such as pain while chewing, swelling in the face, tooth sensitivity, or blood in the gums should be checked by a professional. If you or your children have any health issues or are suffering from any diseases like diabetes or high blood pressure, you should schedule a meeting with your dentist to determine how it affects your oral health.
With children—especially in their early years—it can sometimes be difficult to figure out whether there are any symptoms that could be cause for concern since they are not very vocal about what's bothering them. Therefore, if you have any young kids, make sure you regularly check their mouth and teeth for signs.
When should my kids start going to the dentist?
It's best to start routine visits to the dentist early in life so that your children get acclimated to the exam process at a young age. The ideal time for your child's first dental visit is within six months of their first tooth appearing. While this helps to prevent tooth decay and gum diseases, it also helps your child to get more comfortable with the dental tools and with sitting in the chair at the dentist's office, which seems scary to some little ones.
Conclusion
It's essential to visit your dentist regularly for healthy teeth. It doesn't matter if you have never had a single cavity. You still need to see your dentist so that you steer clear of oral care issues in the future. With regular dental cleanings, you will not only keep your family's teeth healthy, but you will also establish a habit of good oral hygiene for your children.
Still in search of a fantastic dentist? Pay a visit to our clinic to see if we’re right for you! As an expert dental team serving Ann Arbor and Waterford, MI, we’re ready to give you the best care possible.
