How Often Are Dental Checkups Needed

Going in for a dental checkup might not be at the top of your priority list, but it should be. There could be many reasons why you have not been to the dentist’s office for a year or longer. Life can get busy, or you may have fears or anxieties about these visits. Whatever has kept you from making and keeping these appointments, make sure you change your ways and see your dentist regularly.

The benefits of a dental checkup

Just like a person’s car needs regular maintenance, people’s oral health needs consistent examinations from a trained professional. A dentist has knowledge of the teeth, gums, jaw, and other components of the mouth. A regular visit is an effective way to fight off problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Checkups are also good opportunities for the dentist to identify problems before they get more serious. Plus, these appointments allow for instruction from the dentist and questions from the patient.

When to get started

Parents should emphasize good oral health from the time their children are born. Once the child starts getting their first tooth, trips to the dentist’s office for a dental checkup can begin. This usually starts around the age of 1, though some children can get teeth as early as a few months after birth. Parents who have put off appointments for their children should get started on wellness checkups immediately.

Frequency of the appointments

Dental professionals agree that patients of all ages should have a dental checkup at least every six months. This regularity helps to establish proper oral health habits. It also allows the dentist to keep on top of emerging abnormalities and conditions such as tooth decay, bite dysfunctions, and jaw pain. Patients who happen to get behind on semiannual visits should catch up by making an appointment right away.

More appointments, as necessary

The twice-a-year rule has some flexibility. Patients who have serious oral health concerns should not wait too long in between visits if issues get worse or if they have intense pain or discomfort. People who have a history of oral health challenges may want to visit the dentist every three or four months instead. The dentist can guide the patient in making the right decision when it comes to the frequency of trips in these situations.

For emergencies

Sometimes, urgent dental matters can arise. These always require immediate attention. Examples of dental emergencies include broken teeth, bleeding gums, jaw pain, and severe tooth pain. During an emergency visit, the dentist may do a partial dental checkup to make sure there are no other serious issues occurring.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Checkup in Tomball, TX.

Staying on schedule is good for your health

It is easy to get off track when it comes to health care. A dental checkup is no different. However, if you can make it a point to go to the dentist every six months, you increase your chances of having the oral health you want. You can avoid cavities and other problems, all while enjoying an attractive smile.

Request an appointment or call Heather Feray Bohan, DDS, PA at 281-864-1581 for an appointment in our Tomball office.

Recent Posts

What To Do When You Have A Chipped Tooth

There are many possible causes of a chipped tooth. Opening packages with your teeth, biting down on hard foods or objects and facial trauma can chip teeth. Whatever the cause, a chipped tooth can bring discomfort and make your teeth less appealing. Fixing a chipped tooth when you first notice it can prevent further problems.…

3 Material Options For Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are the most popular way to restore teeth that are in bad shape due to decay, injury or other imperfections. Modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of many different material choices, all of which offer their own pros and cons. Keep reading to learn about three options that general dentists recommend. Outlined below…

Can A Broken Tooth Be Saved?

Dealing with a broken tooth? Read on to learn about how a dentist can help. A broken tooth is one of those injuries that tend to occur at the worst possible times. You’re having fun one second, and your tooth is broken the next. It might be a tasty treat you bite into, a fall,…

Heather Feray Bohan, DDS, PA

Share
Published by
Heather Feray Bohan, DDS, PA

Recent Posts

What to Do When You Have a Chipped Tooth

Crowns can match the rest of the teeth and be unnoticeable within the mouth.

3 weeks ago

3 Material Options For Dental Crowns

Looking for further information on dental crowns? Talking with a general dentist is the best…

2 months ago

Can a Broken Tooth Be Saved?

Crowns are typically recommended for moderate to severe breaks.

3 months ago

4 Guidelines To Know if You are a Candidate for Dental Veneers

A good candidate must have enough enamel on each tooth, so it is able to…

4 months ago

What to Ask at Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation

It is important to be thorough with your questions during your consultation appointment.

5 months ago

A Guide to Getting a Smile Makeover From a Dentist

Having a general idea of the timeline for a smile makeover can be helpful.

6 months ago