How Often Should You Get a Dental Check-Up?

When was the last time you scheduled a dental check-up? If you can’t remember, it might be time to book one.

Regular check-ups with your dentist are necessary to safeguard your smile, minimise tooth issues, and prevent manageable problems from escalating. But how often should you get a dental check-up?

You might have heard the standard advice of visiting every six months, but is that the correct answer for everyone?

The General Rule: Every Six Months

For most people, the standard recommendation is to visit the dentist every six months. This timeline allows your dentist to monitor your oral health, clean away plaque buildup, and catch potential issues early.

Cavities and gum disease can develop quietly without pain or apparent symptoms if your teeth feel fine. Regular visits help prevent sudden dental emergencies and keep your mouth in shape.

Why Some People Need More Frequent Visits

While six months is a good guideline, it’s not a one-size-fits-all rule.

Some people benefit from more frequent check-ups, especially if they have specific risk factors such as:

• A History of Gum Disease – Professional dental check-ups happen three to four times annually when patients have previous gum disease to stop its return.
• Frequent Cavities – Some people are more prone to cavities due to genetics, diet, or oral hygiene habits. More frequent visits allow your dentist to monitor and manage early signs of decay.
• Orthodontic Treatment – If you have braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances, your dentist may suggest more frequent check-ups to ensure proper hygiene and monitor for any issues.
• Chronic Health Conditions – Conditions like diabetes or immune disorders can affect oral health, making more regular visits beneficial.
• Smoking or Heavy Alcohol Use – Frequent dental check-ups detect early problems because these habits raise your chance of developing oral cancer and other dental issues, including gum disease.

Can Some People Go Less Often?

If you have excellent oral health, maintain a consistent hygiene routine, and have no history of dental issues, your dentist might suggest annual check-ups instead of every six months. However, you should only decide this in consultation with your dentist.

Skipping check-ups entirely is never a good idea—waiting too long between visits increases the risk of undetected problems that could lead to more extensive treatments.

What Happens During a Dental Check-Up?

A routine dental check-up isn’t just about cleaning your teeth. Your dentist will:

1. Examine Your Teeth and Gums – A careful examination of your teeth and gums should be done to detect cavities, gum disease, and any oral health issues.
2. Professional Cleaning – Remove sticky plaque and accumulated hard tartar deposits, which brushing methods often cannot access.
3. Check for Oral Cancer – Screening for early detection of oral cancer is essential to finding cancer early so treatment can begin quickly.
4. Assess Your Bite and Jaw Health – Identifying issues like TMJ disorders or teeth grinding.
5. Take X-rays if Needed – Spotting hidden problems such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, or impacted teeth.

The Benefits of Regular Check-Ups

Staying on top of your dental check-ups comes with several advantages:

• Preventative Care Saves Money – Catching a small cavity early is far less expensive than needing a root canal or crown later.
• Keeps Your Smile Looking Great – Professional cleanings remove stains and plaque buildup, keeping your teeth looking their best.
• Reduces the Risk of Tooth Loss – Regular dental appointments help stop gum disease from becoming the main factor that leads to complete tooth loss in adults.
• Improves Overall Health – Poor oral health is linked to heart disease and diabetes. Keeping your mouth healthy supports your overall well-being.
• Peace of Mind – Knowing your teeth and gums are in good condition helps you avoid the stress and discomfort of unexpected dental problems.

Making Dental Check-Ups a Priority

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to let dental visits slide. However, skipping check-ups can lead to more significant problems later.

The good news is that scheduling appointments is simple, and most check-ups take less than an hour. Think of it as an investment in your health and confidence.

Dental Check-Up in Leederville

If you’re overdue for a check-up or unsure how often you should visit, now is the perfect time to take action. Book your next dental appointment today, and keep your smile healthy for years!

At Dentists on Vincent, you’ll find a friendly environment in a lovely heritage building that doesn’t feel like you’re at the dentist!

We look forward to welcoming you to our practice. Call us at (08) 9242 4400 or visit us at 322 Vincent St in Leederville.

PARKING/PUBLIC TRANSPORT

There is ample car parking across the road from the practice

There are cafes and eateries within walking distance

LOCATION

Dentists on Vincent is located in Leederville, 14 min from Northbridge and only short stroll from Leederville Oval and Water Corporation