Best Guidelines for How Often to Schedule Dental Visits for My Family
Maintaining regular dental visits is one of the most important steps in ensuring long-term oral health for you and your family. Surveys done recently revealed that children who see the dentist regularly have less cavities and adults have significantly fewer missing teeth. How often should those visits actually happen?
General Recommendation
Most dental professionals recommend scheduling a check-up and cleaning every six months. This biannual schedule allows dentists to:
Remove tartar and plaque build-up
Catch early signs of cavities or gum disease
Monitor dental development in children
Perform oral cancer screenings
Children and Teens
For kids and teens, regular visits are especially important. Their teeth and jaws are developing, and early detection of issues like misalignment or decay can prevent more serious problems later. Visits every six months are standard, but your dentist might recommend more frequent visits if:
Your child is wearing braces
They are prone to cavities
They have special healthcare needs
Adults
Adults without major dental issues can usually stick to the six-month guideline. However, you might need more frequent visits if you:
Smoke or use tobacco
Have gum disease
Are pregnant (due to hormonal changes affecting gum health)
Have ongoing medical conditions like diabetes, which can impact oral health
Seniors
As we age, our dental needs change. Seniors may need more frequent check-ups to monitor:
Gum recession
Dry mouth (often caused by medications)
Wear and tear on dental work
Emergencies and Special Situations
Outside of routine visits, schedule an appointment if you or a family member experience:
Tooth pain
Swelling or bleeding gums
A cracked or knocked-out tooth
Persistent bad breath
Final Thought
While twice-a-year visits are a great rule of thumb, your family’s unique needs might require a more tailored schedule. Regular check-ups also allow for a partnership with your dental professional. Talk to your dentist about what’s best for each family member. Since 1996, Plainsboro Dental Care is a leading family dental practice offering services in a for the entire family. Our goal is to offer a relaxed atmosphere and gentle approach to every treatment. Regular dental care helps ensure a healthy, confident smile for years to come. Schedule your appointment today at 609-799-4422.