You may have heard that you should go to the dentist twice a year, but is that really necessary? How often do you really need to go to the dentist in order to maintain your oral health? In this blog post, we will discuss how often you should go to the dentist, the different factors that affect the frequency, and some tips on keeping your teeth healthy between visits. Let’s get started!
How Often Should I Go to the Dentist?
Generally speaking, the Canadian Dental Association recommends that most adults visit their dentist at least once every six months for a routine cleaning and checkup. This schedule allows for early detection of any potential problems and allows your dentist to take preventive measures that can minimize the need for more extensive treatments down the road.
However, this schedule isn’t appropriate for everyone. There a number of factors can affect how frequently you should be going to the dentist.
What Factors Affect How Often I Should Go to the Dentist?
There are several factors that can affect how often you should visit your dentist. This includes:
- Age. Children and teens tend to need more frequent visits than adults due to their rapidly changing oral health.
- Overall health. If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes or are pregnant, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
- Oral hygiene habits. Poor oral hygiene can increase your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease, so more frequent visits may be necessary.
- Dental history. If you have a history of cavities, gum disease or other dental problems, you may need to go more often.
How Can I Keep My Teeth Healthy Between Dental Visits?
It’s important to take steps to keep your teeth healthy even when you’re not at the dentist. Not only will this help you maintain your oral health, but it can also reduce the need for more frequent visits (and if you have dental anxiety, this may be the best reason!). Let’s take a look at some of the things you can do below.
Brushing and Flossing Twice a Day
Brushing and flossing twice a day are essential for fighting plaque and bacteria, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for best results.
Eating Healthy Foods
Eating a healthy diet is key for maintaining your overall health and your oral health. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as foods that are rich in calcium, such as milk and yogurt.
Avoiding Sugary Drinks and Foods
Sugar is a major cause of cavities, so it’s important to limit your intake of sugary drinks and foods. If you do have something sweet, make sure to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
The Bottom Line
Going to the dentist twice a year is a good rule of thumb, but your individual circumstances may warrant more or less frequent visits. The best way to determine how often you should go is to have a conversation with your dentist. They will be able to assess your oral health and recommend a schedule that is right for you.
In the meantime, make sure to take good care of your teeth by brushing and flossing twice a day, eating healthy foods, and avoiding sugary drinks and foods. Doing these things can help you maintain your oral health between visits and may even reduce the need for more frequent trips to the dentist. Good luck!
Are you due for a dentist appointment? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Shelburne Village Dental, and make an appointment today.
