How Often Should You See the Dentist?

Going to the dentist regularly can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong. If you don’t have a routine cleaning and exam schedule, you could be more likely to develop decay and damage.

A general dentist in Rockland County, NY, can help clean your teeth and identify any early signs of a problem. How often you need to see your dentist depends on the overall health of your teeth and any past dental treatment you’ve had done.

How Often to See a Dentist in Rockland County, NY

Everyone’s mouth is different. As such, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to dental care. Overall, you’ll need to see your dentist as frequently as they suggest to ensure your oral health is taken care of. Typically, however, most patients will fall into three categories for how frequently they need to see the dentist.

Every Six Months

The majority of patients will need to see their dentist every six months for proper oral care. Most insurances cover preventative care, paying for two visits to your dentist per 12 months.

During your visit, your dentist will clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup. They will also examine your teeth and gums to identify any early signs of decay or damage. Seeing your dentist at least every six months can help prevent major cases of dental problems.

Every Four Months

Some patients need three cleanings and exams a year. What determines this depends on a few different factors. Some patients have naturally weak tooth enamel. Others have cases of dry mouth that make it easier for plaque and tartar to build up.

Getting an extra cleaning can be useful to help prevent decay and damage. In most cases, your dentist may only examine your mouth during two of these appointments unless you have a concern.

Every Three Months

For patients who have periodontal (gum) disease, additional cleanings are required to keep your gums healthy and strong. After your initial scaling and root planing, you’ll need to visit your dentist every three months to get your gums cleaned and examined.

Once you have gum disease, it’s easier to suffer damage and further decay in the soft tissue of your mouth. That’s why it’s crucial that you see your dentist more frequently. Once officially diagnosed, your dental insurance may help cover these additional appointments.

Appointments with Restorative Treatment

While you should naturally be seeing your dentist at least every six months, you want to ensure you follow a good cleaning routine if you have had restorative treatment in the past. Dental restorations, such as crowns, need additional care and attention to ensure they work properly and last long.

If you aren’t seeing your dentist regularly, your mouth could suffer serious damage. Call Cosmetic Dentistry Associates today at (845) 241-0656 to schedule an appointment and take your oral health into your own hands.