Going to the dentist often seems more like a chore than a luxury. We may procrastinate going or leave years between appointments. But oral health is so important for our general health and wellbeing. It is always better to make dental visits a regular part of your life. It might also save you time, money and pain in the long run. A dentist can pick up problems before they become a bigger issue.
As your Ropes Crossing and Wentworth point dental practices, we genuinely care about your oral health. In this article, we discuss how often you should be visiting the dentist and the reasons why.
Dental Check-Up
Most people, when asked, would say you are supposed to visit the dentist every 6 months. This isn’t necessarily true. It really depends on the individual. Someone with very healthy, problem-free teeth may only have to go once a year. While those with oral health issues may need to go every few months. It is important to speak to your dentist to see what they recommend for you.
At a check-up, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth. Checking for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health problems. If this is done regularly, as well as good at-home care, your oral hygiene should stay on track and your smile healthy. This dental check-up may also prevent costly issues from arising later on. This is why it’s always better to see your dentist consistently and regularly.
Professional Scale and Clean
This is something that will most likely be done as part of your dental check-up. It is important to have a professional clean regularly. Your dentist has special tools to remove stubborn tartar. This is something you cannot do at home. Plaque and tartar build-up can lead to tooth decay if left untreated.
Toothaches and Pains
As well as visiting the dentist for your regular check-up and clean, you may also need to visit for other reasons. You know your own body. So, if you notice a change in your mouth then it’s important to go and see your dentist. It could be any number of things, and your dentist will be able to determine the correct treatment for you. This is important for preventing bigger issues from occurring.
General Health Issues
If something has changed with your health, like being diagnosed with a disease such as diabetes, let your dentist know. Health issues are often connected to different parts of the body. They may have implications that will affect your oral health. So, it is important to visit your dentist if your health changes and update them on these changes
How Often Should Your Kids Visit the Dentist?
Children need to experience going to the dentist regularly. You want them to become familiar with the dental environment and oral health from a young age. That way they can develop good oral health habits that extend into adulthood. A child’s first dental visit should happen within 6 months of getting their first tooth. It is so important that they learn to value and look after their teeth.. It will also mean they run into less dental problems as adults.
Practice makes perfect, so visiting the dentist can help your child get used to the different tools that dentists use. The dentist can be a scary place for little kids. The more they experience it and get comfortable there, the better. It is never too early to teach good oral health habits.
Wrapping Up
Going to the dentist, although not the most fun activity in the world, is essential. It is vital for your oral health and general wellbeing. How often you go will depend on your specific needs. In saying that, you should make sure you go at least once a year. If you are unsure about your specific needs, then speak to your dentist.
Feeling guilty about slacking when it comes to your dental check-ups? Make an appointment at Boon Dental today.
