Do I Need A Dental Checkup Every 6 Months?

For many of us, visiting the dentist is a fairly unpleasant experience. Even the knowledge that dentists are often friendly people, with our best interests at heart, isn’t enough for some of us to get past fear surrounding dentist visits. Because of this anxiety, some of us neglect going to the dentist, and ask- do I really need to go to the dentist every six months? Truthfully, the answer is complicated. In this week’s blog, we’ll be uncovering whether or not the biannual checkup is really necessary.

So do I need to go every 6 months?

The debate around how often we need to visit the dentist goes back centuries, so it’s unlikely that we’ll reach a consensus any time soon. But there are certain factors that come into play when considering the regularity of your visits, such as age, socioeconomic background and individual health issues. One thing that is certain, however, is that dentist visits should be regular to maintain optimal oral health.

What do dentists need to know?

If you’re moving to a new dentist, or if this is your first ever visit to a dentist, they will conduct an initial consultation to discuss your individual health problems- for example, diabetes may require a different anesthesia and can increase your risk of gum disease. It’s important that they have this knowledge of your medical background, as this may affect how they treat and diagnose issues in your oral health.

What happens in a checkup?

In each checkup, the dentist will check for cavities and plaque. They will also check your gums, tongue, throat, neck and face for any signs of swelling or infection. Your dentist may then offer to clean your teeth to remove any plaque, as well as discussing any issues you may be experiencing.

So while 6 months may not be the exact, perfect amount of time to leave between dentist appointments, it’s incredibly important to see your dentist regularly to maintain good oral health. Biannual checkups offer a time period that is both regular and easy to remember, so most dentists will recommend you have a checkup every 6 months. Eden Rise Dental are your friendly, local dentist in Berwick, offering high quality service and treatment. Get in touch by calling (03) 9702 6111 for more information today.