how often should you go to the dentist

How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

Good dental hygiene habits and dental care may seem like common sense, but did you know that millions of Americans often don’t visit their dentists frequently enough? Many adults skip seeing the dentist to avoid increased medical bills, discomfort, or receiving potentially bad news.

However, regular visits to a trusted, affordable dental professional are critical for maintaining dental health. Receiving regular dental care doesn’t have to be financially or emotionally stressful, either.

At Tucson Family Dentistry, we understand the benefits of quality dental care. As Tucson’s top-rated dentist, we’re here to help all clients make informed decisions about their dental health. In this blog, we answer common questions including how often you should go to the dentist, why you should go, and what you can expect during a routine visit.

To learn more about dental health or schedule an appointment, reach out to our friendly staff today.

Why Regular Dental Checkups Are Important

Many adults only visit the dentist for dental emergencies like broken teeth, infections, and other critical situations. In reality, regular dental checkups help catch problems such as tooth decay or gum disease early, preventing further damage to the teeth and jaws.

Regular dental checkups also include oral cancer screenings, which help patients catch the warning signs of mouth, tongue, and throat cancers early. Regular dental visits, including yearly examinations and semiannual teeth cleanings, help improve a person’s dental and overall health by keeping teeth and gums strong.

How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the dentist, you may be wondering how often you should go to the dentist. The answer varies for everyone, but most people with good dental hygiene habits need only two visits a year.

Some medical conditions can impact the longevity of tooth enamel or may otherwise impact your dental health. Speak to your doctors and dentist about proper dental care habits if you:

  • Are diabetic
  • Are a current or former smoker
  • Have heart conditions
  • Are pregnant
  • Have genetic disorders that impact your gums, jawbones, or enamel

What to Expect During Routine Dental Checkups

What to expect during a routine dental visit depends significantly on how often you visit the dentist. If it’s been a while since your last visit, you can expect procedures that help the dentist assess the state of your oral health. These procedures include:

  • X-rays
  • Visual examination
  • Oral cancer screening
  • Cavity inspection
  • Cleaning
  • Polishing
  • And more

To learn more about what to expect during routine dental visits or your first visit, reach out before your appointment. Our staff can answer any questions you may have.

Find Affordable Dental Care Today

How often you should go to the dentist is, in many ways, up to you. If it’s been a while, don’t stress! While dental care might seem intimidating, we work hard to make it more affordable and accessible than ever. At Tucson Family Dentistry, we help every patient achieve optimal dental health.

To learn how often you should brush your teeth and other great dental hygiene tips, browse our blog or schedule an appointment with Dr. Dalesandro or Dr. Derickson today. 

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