How Often You Should See A Dentist—Based On Age And Health Needs

For most people, visiting the dentist is something they only think about when there’s pain or discomfort. However, regular dental checkups play a crucial role in maintaining both oral health and overall wellness.

However, if you want to be certain about how often you should get a dental checkup, you should evaluate your age, hygiene, habits, and overall health.

That said, dental checkups are routine appointments that include an examination and cleaning. Moreover, dental treatments are specific appointments that address concerns such as fillings, deep teeth cleanings, root canals, tooth extractions, etc. 

Dental procedures are planned as needed, whereas dental checks occur on a regular basis. 

Why Do I Need Dental Checkups?

Everyone should have a dental checkup. 

These routine checkups allow your dentist to identify any dental problems or other oral health issues that you may have overlooked. Without frequent dental appointments, untreated diseases are likely to become unpleasant and difficult to cure in the future.‌

Allowing your dentist to evaluate your teeth and gums on a regular basis can also prevent complications. When your dentist looks for cavities and offers you specific suggestions on how to improve your oral hygiene practices, you are less likely to get cavities.‌

A survey conducted in the United Kingdom found that children who only went to the dentist when they recognized a problem had more decaying teeth and fillings than children who went on a regular schedule. 

However, the question of how often should you go to the dentist depends on several factors that can vary based on an individual’s age, the phases of which are elaborated below.

1. Infants and Young Children

Babies often cut their first tooth around six months, although others may not have teeth until they are closer to a year old. The American Dental Association recommended that parents take their infant in for an assessment when they obtain their first tooth or before their first birthday. Even infants can acquire cavities.

Following this first visit, a dentist will advise you on how frequently to bring your child and how to clean and care for their developing teeth as they grow and lose their baby teeth. 

2. Teens and Young Adults

Teens are not recognized for outstanding oral hygiene. These are the years when junk food, a lack of brushing, and other habits harm the teeth and gums. You can ensure that your children brush and floss thoroughly when they are young. However, teenagers find it more difficult.

Braces and wisdom teeth are common in this age group, necessitating additional visits. Pre-teen and adolescent children should visit the dentist at least once every six months, depending on their dental health and orthodontic needs.

3. Adults Aged 40 and Under

While adults are meant to be the epitome of good dental hygiene, this is not always the case. A hectic schedule might make it difficult to keep up with brushing twice a day, flossing, and rinsing. It is preferable to get bi-annual teeth cleanings and dental checkups, but many adults require them more frequently, depending on the condition of their gums and teeth. If your teeth are overcrowded, bacteria quickly accumulate in certain places, leading to tooth decay.

Cosmetic dentistry is common among this age group. Teeth whitening, cosmetic crowns, porcelain veneers, and other treatments can help you achieve a brighter smile free of chips, cracks, and discoloration.

4. Pregnancy

Growing your family is a wonderful time, and pregnancy brings numerous physical changes. You expect the baby bump and nausea, but not the bleeding gums, loose teeth, and risk of cavities and gum disease. Visit the dentist throughout pregnancy to maintain healthy oral health.

A dentist may recommend that you visit throughout the second and third trimesters to prevent gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) or to address any other changes in your oral health.

5. Adults Aged 40-60

The older you get, the more likely you are to have chronic health disorders, many of which can affect your mouth as well. Diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions have been related to dental and oral issues, such as gum disease. Teeth cleanings and dental exams can also help identify early warning signs of some illnesses.

This age range is when adults are slightly more likely to lose one or more teeth, which must be addressed immediately to avoid future tooth loss, migrating teeth, and bone recession. Other issues for adults include tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, tooth fractures, eroded tooth enamel, and oral cancer, which can affect people of any age. 

6. Adults Aged 60 and Older

Adults over the age of 60 are more likely to take prescribed medication that may have an impact on their dental health and struggle to maintain daily brushing and flossing habits. 

People over the age of 60 may have one or more health issues that prevent them from brushing their teeth adequately. Restorative dentistry procedures can help prevent future problems. 

How Often Should I Visit the Dentist?

There is no one-size-fits-all response to this question. Factors influencing how frequently you need to see the dentist include:

Lifestyle. If you drink or smoke frequently, you may need to visit the dentist more often. According to studies, those who drink alcohol have a threefold higher risk of permanent tooth loss than the national average in the United States, and tobacco use is associated with prevalent oral disorders.

Attitude. If you are determined to maintain proper dental hygiene habits, your oral health will improve. The more you devote yourself to keeping your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy, the less likely you are to have to visit the dentist frequently.

Biology. Certain aspects of your dental health are beyond your control. If you are prone to developing cavities, you will need to take extra precautions to avoid them. If you have a family history of certain oral disorders, you will require further care from your dentist.

Final Thoughts

The widely accepted “twice a year” rule works as a baseline for many people, but it’s not a universal prescription. The ideal frequency for dental visits depends on age group, health conditions, and lifestyle factors.

At the end of the day, regular dental visits help prevent small problems from becoming large, costly ones. Beyond teeth and gums, oral health impacts heart health, diabetes control, and even mental well-being.

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