People should go to the dentist twice a year for checkups and cleaning because cavities and gum disease are preventable.
Scheduling dental visits really should be based upon each person’s oral hygiene, habits and medical conditions.
Even if you take excellent care of your teeth and gums at home, you still need to see a dentist regularly by finding a dentist near me. Your dentist can check for problems that you may not see or feel. Many dental problems don’t become visible or cause pain until they are in more advanced stages. Examples include cavities, gum disease and oral cancer. Regular visits allow your dentist to find early signs of disease. Problems can be treated at a manageable stage.
On average, seeing a dentist twice a year works well for many people. Some can get away with fewer visits. Others may need more frequent visits. People with very little risk of cavities or gum disease can do fine seeing their dentist just once a year. People with a high risk of dental disease might need to visit every three or four months, or more. You should find a dentist by looking for a dentist near me. This high-risk group includes:
Smokers
Tobacco use is the major reason for death and disease in Canada. Smoking is attributed to not only severe dental disorders but other severe ailments as well. Smoking tobacco, chewing, or vaping can cause many dental or health disorders. Some ill effects of smoking are:
- Persistent cough
- Difficulty in breathing
- High hot and cold sensitivity
- Predisposition to cardiovascular disease and cancer
- Stained teeth and bad breath (gingivitis)
- Lower sense of smell and taste
Pregnant Women
Pregnancy is accompanied with hormonal and metabolic changes. This makes a woman more vulnerable to dental infections such as gingivitis, enamel erosion, etc.
Diabetics
Diabetes mellitus is a common condition that the urban population faces due to their fast-paced lifestyle. Research shows that diabetics are more likely to experience periodontal disease and tooth loss. A diabetic who smokes increases his/her risk of periodontal disease by 10 times. Good management of diabetes and regular visits to your dentist may help reduce the onslaught of periodontal disease.
People with current gum disease
If someone has an existing gum disorder, it is advisable to visit your dentist frequently so that the condition can be monitored by your dentist.
People with a weak immune response to bacterial infection
Since your mouth is home to various types of bacteria and viruses, it is advisable to have regular checkups for people with a weakened immune response or people taking immunosuppressants.
People who tend to get cavities or build up plaque
Plaque is a deposit that collects on your teeth and if not cleaned hardens into tartar within 72 hours. While plaque can be removed with regular brushing and flossing, tartar needs to be removed by a dentist. People who are prone to an excessive buildup of plaque and tartar should visit their dentist frequently to get it cleaned to prevent diseases like gingivitis or tooth decay.
The schedule for any person may change during a lifetime. In times of stress or illness, you may need to see the dentist more often than usual. The dentist may help you to fight off a temporary infection or treat changes in your mouth so you should not delay by finding a dentist using keywords like dentist near me.
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OK I’ll admit, I don’t go to the dentist as much as I should. I had a checkup around 8 months ago and have been trying to book into another but the waiting list is crazy because of COVID. Dental care is soo so important!
Rosie
I go every three months because I gag a lot and it’s easier to to go more often for a cleaning than sit through a cleaning for longer.
This is a great post highlighting the importance of regular dental visits. Most people I know dread going to the dentist (I have issues with being able to swallow with my mouth open and being reclined) and really admire those that look forward to going! Thanks for the nudge – I have an appointment later this month.
I definitely need to see my dentist more regularly! With covid mine haven’t been doing regular checkups, just emergency appointments, which is understandable. I can’t wait to get back for that super clean feeling you get from visiting.
Claire.X
http://www.clairemac.co.uk
Growing up I always thought everyone went to the dentist once a year and that was it. I didn’t realize how our different types of teeth could cause us to have to go more often. So interesting to learn even more things that impact our need to see the dentist! I didn’t realize something like pregnancy or diabetes could affect your teeth!
I’ve just started seeing my dentist again after…let’s just say a long time! I’m not scared of the dentist, but I never really made ‘me’ a priority until recently. Now trying to catch up on visits and I am glad I have nothing to worry about x
It has been almost 2 years I am not visiting my dentist. I think your post is a hint. Thank you! Dental health is real. 🙏
The last time I went was December 2019! But since has not been my fault, my appointment was due last May which obviously got cancelled due to the pandemic and then I have been trying to get in this year and they just are so busy! I am always so paranoid about my teeth as I have sensitive gums but normally I go and it’s fine. I think the last year where my diet has not been amazing has made me more scared, but I know it’s better for a dentist to get it sorted than leaving it! Thanks for the reminder xx
I don’t go to the dentist as much as I should but don’t have any issues with my teeth. This has prompted me to book a hygienist visit x
A well done and creative job done, Keyleigh!!
I ususally go to dentist in a 3 or 4 months time span when there is some pain happened in teeth. Also i brush 2 times a day daily so i never ever get any serious problems but still going to dentist is a good decision.
Your blog is definitely a true guide which i definitely shared with my friends and tell them to do the same.
Have a good day!
I’m not the biggest fan of the dentist but as it’s an only twice a year appointment, I don’t mind it so much, it’s so important to have regular check ups though! x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk