It is generally recommended that you see the dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and checkup. However, you may need to visit more frequently if your dental health requires it. Your dentist can help you determine how often you should schedule appointments.
Dental checkups are crucial because they allow your dentist to:
Remove tartar (hardened plaque) that can only be removed with professional cleaning
Detect and treat gum disease
Detect and treat oral health problems at an early stage, when they are most easily treated
Help prevent oral health problems by providing guidance on proper brushing, flossing, and saliva flow
Monitor changes in your mouth over time that may be indicative of other health problems
Examine your teeth and gums
Check for indications of gum disease or tooth decay
Take X-rays of your mouth to look for problems that cannot be seen with the naked eye, such as decay between the teeth or problems with the bones supporting the teeth
Clean your teeth
Apply fluoride to your teeth to help prevent decay
Make recommendations for proper at-home care, such as brushing and flossing techniques or changes in diet
Schedule a follow-up appointment if necessary
You have tooth pain or sensitivity
You have swollen, tender gums
You have bleeding gums
You have presence of pus around your teeth and gums
You have frequent mouth infections
Your teeth are loose or separating
You have persistent bad breath
Your bite pattern changed or you are having trouble chewing
If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact your dentist right away using Dentulu. Make an appointment in a few clicks. Remember, dental problems do not go away on their own and will only get worse if left untreated.
At-home oral care is important, but it is not enough to maintain good oral health. You need professional dental care to keep your mouth healthy and prevent problems from developing or becoming worse. Don’t wait until you have a problem seeing the dentist. Schedule routine appointments so you can catch problems early and keep your smile healthy for life!