How Often Are General Dentistry Check-Ups Necessary?

General dentistry check-up appointments include cleanings and examinations, both of which are necessary in order to maintain good oral health. Although oral hygiene at home is a great way to maintain the health of the teeth and gums, it alone is not enough to combat gum disease or cavities. Because of this risk, general dentists recommend check-up appointments on a regular basis. So, what is considered a regular basis? Keep reading to learn more.

About general dentistry check-ups

Below is a quick overview of general dentistry check-ups, including how often they are needed and for whom.

How often are dental check-ups needed?

General dentistry check-up appointments are needed at least twice a year. It has been said that after six months, the teeth and gums become more prone to cavities and periodontitis, which is why check-ups are needed. The teeth can be cleaned and the gums can be checked to ensure that everything is in good working condition. While every six months is the general dentistry standard, there are some situations in which more frequent appointments are recommended.

When general dentistry check-ups are recommended on a more frequent basis, this is not to say once a month or every other week. Instead, patients are usually advised to have two more appointments than normal, which would add up to four a year, or once every three months. During the check-up appointment, the general dentist will still perform an examination and cleaning as per usual.

Outlined below are the scenarios in which general dentistry cleanings are recommended more frequently than twice a year:

• Individuals that are prone to gum disease or cavities. Cleanings are needed to prevent both these types of problems from developing
• Elderly patients who have dry mouth as this causes bacteria build-up, which leads to cavities
• Children who are developing their baby teeth, as they should be monitored throughout the growing process
• Individuals who are undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces as the teeth become prone to cavities since oral hygiene is more difficult to perform

Of course, there are other situations in which more frequent general dentistry appointments are recommended, however, these are patient-specific and would be identified during a consultation appointment.

Other things to know

It is important to understand that not all general dentistry check-up appointments will be the same. If two are done a year then the appointments will consist of a cleaning and an examination. However, only one will include x-rays and fluoride treatment. In the case of more frequent appointments, patients should expect to always have a cleaning done, but examinations may only be done twice a year.

Do you need a general dentistry check-up?

General dentistry check-ups are needed at the very minimum twice a year, however, some individuals may need them more frequently. To find out how often a check-up is needed, contact our office today. Our general dentist can perform an evaluation in order to determine the number of appointments required each year.

Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistofvisalia.com or call Visalia Care Dental at (559) 975-1213 for an appointment in our Visalia office.

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