How Often Do I Need a Dental Exam?

You know that a dental exam is a normal part of an oral hygiene routine. You are not sure how often you should get one, though. The duration between appointments depends on different factors. Get the details so you will know how often to visit the dentist.

Dental exam schedule

Dentists typically recommend an appointment schedule after examining patients. Providers have a much better idea of how often patients need to visit once they review the medical histories and look at the teeth and gums. After the assessment, dentists explain how often appointments are needed. Appointments are generally needed one time a year, every six months or once every three to four months. Get the details.

Once a year

Some patients only need a dental exam one time a year. Patients must have superb oral and physical health to follow this schedule. Those who see the dentist one time a year do not have a risk for gum disease or cavities. These patients also understand the importance of following an oral hygiene routine at home.

Every six months

Patients who have received dental fillings or restorations should visit the dentist every six months. During the six-month visit, dentists check the restorations to ensure they are intact. The dental team also professionally cleans the teeth to prevent future cavities. These semi-annual visits make patients more likely to retain their natural teeth.

Also, children should visit the dentist every six months. Dentists ensure the jaw and mouth are growing properly and look for alignment issues. During the exams, dentists also determine if the children are getting enough fluoride. Semi-annual visits also allow dentists to teach children about oral health.

Every three to four months

High-risk patients need to visit the dentist every three to four months. After examining the patient, the dentist will provide an exact timeline for these visits. High-risk patients include people with periodontal disease, smokers, diabetics and those with weak immune systems. Pregnant women should also visit the dentist every three or four months.

Patients who are prone to cavities should also visit the dentist every three to four months. Removing the bacteria and plaque makes new cavities less likely to form. If patients still get cavities, dentists catch them in the early stages. With early detection, dentists only need to remove a small portion of the affected tooth.

Getting a dental exam

There is not a set answer for how often you should get a dental exam. Your dentist will give you a schedule during your next exam. However, you will likely go once a year if you are in superb oral health, every six months if you have some restorations and every three to four months if you are a high-risk patient. You can also expect to take your kids to the dentist every six months. To find out how often you need to go, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Request an appointment here: http://www.gardendentalartsny.com or call Garden Dental Arts at (718) 416-6367 for an appointment in our Brooklyn office.

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