How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
Taking good care of your teeth requires the practice of good hygiene habits, including daily brushing and flossing. But it is more than just diligently practicing a daily routine. A big component of keeping your teeth healthy is visiting the dentist in poulsbo wa regularly for an oral exam and professional cleaning. Here are some helpful guidelines to help you determine how often you should visit your dentist.
The “Twice a Year” or 6 Month Rule
Over the last few decades the rule of thumb on how often you should visit the dentist has changed quite a bit. Fifty years ago, the only reason you would go see a dentist was if you had serious issues with your teeth. Dental clinics were focused on fixing oral problems rather than preventing them. Eventually, US national health organizations decided to develop guidelines to help the American population improve their oral health. Americans were encouraged to make their oral health a priority and make appointments to see their dentist at least two times a year. From this point moving forward, the “twice a year rule”, became accepted as the rule of thumb. However, this rule is not set in stone and was determined to be what is best for most people. The truth is, how often a person should visit the dentist is actually based on their personal oral health. While it isn’t set in stone and not accurate for absolutely everyone, it is not a bad thing to have an easy rule to help Americans remember it is time to check in on their gums and teeth.
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
Even if you brush and floss daily, it is critically important that you see the dentist regularly. Why is it so important? The initial stages of decay and disease development with teeth, gums, or mouth cannot be seen or felt. Unfortunately, the symptoms of disease and decay don’t develop until the conditions have progressed. The earlier your dentist is able to identify these issues the earlier they are able to treat them and take care of your oral health.
So how often do YOU need to visit the dentist? The answer to this question is different for everyone. The best way to determine how often you need to see the dentist is to have a conversation with your dentist. For many individuals, going to the dentist twice a year is enough to maintain the health of their teeth and gums. Individuals who are at higher risk of gum disease or cavities may need to see their dentist every three to four months. Do not be concerned if your dentist suggests an extra visit to check in from time to time. If your dentist has recently treated a tooth, such as a filling, or is watching a problem area they may ask you to return sooner than 6 months.
If you have healthy teeth and gums, brush and floss daily, and see your dentist routinely, you are doing great. Talk to your dentist at your next visit to determine what frequency of visits is best for you.
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