How often should you see a dentist?

Check-ups can identify decay, gum inflammation, wear or a problem with an existing restoration at an early stage. However, the right interval is not necessarily the same for every patient.

An interval based on individual risk

The dentist considers the condition of your teeth and gums, daily hygiene, diet, smoking, dry mouth, medical conditions such as diabetes and any ongoing treatment. Closer follow-up may be advised after recent decay, for gum disease, implants, orthodontics or complex care. If oral health is stable and risk is low, the interval may be longer.

The examination may include teeth, restorations, bite, gums and oral tissues. X-rays and scaling are performed only when clinically appropriate; neither is automatically required at every visit.

Between appointments, careful brushing with fluoride toothpaste and interdental cleaning help reduce risk. Do not wait for the next planned check-up if you develop pain, swelling, trauma, unusual bleeding or a persistent lesion.