Did you know that each year, as many as 100 million Americans forego seeing a dentist? That’s a shame, seeing as regular dental visits can prevent most oral health woes. What’s more, the state of the gums and the teeth can also affect a person’s overall physical and mental health.
All that raises the crucial question, how often should you go to the dentist?
Well, it depends on who you are, how healthy your teeth and gums are, and even your family’s health background. In any case, we’ve compiled recommendations from experts in this guide, so be sure to read on!
How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?
Visiting a dentist once or twice every year is a good practice if you have healthy teeth and gums. Studies found patients who follow this schedule have better oral and overall health.
For example, one study looked at dental patients whose ages ranged from 15 to 32. Patients who had at least one check-up every year classified as routine attendees. These individuals exhibited above-average oral health and had fewer cavity-induced teeth loss.
The researchers also noted how 32-year-old routine attendees self-reported better oral health. They also had fewer teeth with cavities and fewer missing or lost teeth. As such, the researchers associate regular dental visits with better oral health.
A separate group of researchers conducted a similar study with similar findings.
What About the Recommendations of Oral Health Experts?
The American Dental Association (ADA) advises patients to follow their dentist’s recommendations. The ADA states that a dentist could determine how often a patient should go for dental visits. After all, people have unique risk factors that may warrant more frequent check-ups.
Those recommendations were in light of a study on preventive dental visit frequency. Individuals who smoke or have diabetes may benefit from more frequent visits. That’s because these risk factors raise the risk of tooth loss and gum disease, too.
So, if you’re a high-risk patient, seeing a dentist no less than twice a year could be good for you. Don’t worry, as your dentist will tell you exactly how often you should visit them for cleanings.
If you’re a low-risk individual, you may be okay with visiting your family dentist once or twice a year. Again, your dentist will tailor your visits based on the current status of your oral health.
What Else Can Make You a High-Risk Dental Patient?
Your personal and family health history can also raise your risks of oral health woes. For instance, an unhealthy diet can make you more prone to tooth decay and gum disease. Sweet, sticky, or acidic food can promote increased plaque and tartar on teeth.
Frequent consumption of alcohol can also have adverse effects on your oral health. Alcohol can erode the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. These beverages can also kill the good bacteria in your mouth and allow the bad ones to proliferate.
As for your family history, oral cancer is one condition that can be genetic. If someone in your family has or had this type of cancer, it’s best to see your dentist more often. This way, your dentist can detect and catch the signs of oral cancer early on.
See a Dentist Now To Learn How Often To Go for Dental Visits
There you have it, the science-back guide that answers the question, how often should you go to the dentist? The very least is once a year, so long as your oral and overall health is in good condition. If not, it’s best to see your dentist more often.
After your check-up, your dentist should tell you when your next visit should be. Follow their advice to a T so that you can maintain optimal oral health.
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