According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), only 64% of Americans aged 18-64 visited the dentist in 2017. Many adults are in the habit of only going in to see their dentist when there is a dental emergency. If you were to ask them why, no doubt, a common answer would be – I didn’t think I needed to go.
Taking care of your teeth is important to you and you know everyone should go see the dentist at least occasionally, but how often should you go to the dentist? It is a common question and it deserves a good answer. Read on to find out how often, or how seldom, a trip to the dentist is necessary.
How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?
Admittedly, visiting the dentist is not high on most people’s fun things-to-do list. We have busy lives and want to avoid taking unnecessary time out for things like going to the dentist if we don’t need it. Here we take a look at some recommendations and reasons behind making and keeping appointments with the dentist’s office.
Emergency Visits
By the time you are screaming in pain, there isn’t much time left to wait. Tooth pain is not something that is going to go away on its own. If you ever had a toothache you know what starts out as discomfort can turn into agonizing pain overnight.
In addition to pain look for noticeable decay, loosening of teeth, and swollen bleeding gums as sure signs you need an emergency visit to the dentist. Delaying will not only delay your suffering but the longer the problem tooth is left untreated the greater the chance you will lose the tooth.
Regular Check-Ups
If it has been years since you had a dental check-up. It is time to visit the dentist. There are normally two reasons why we put off seeing the dentist.
By far the most common reason someone doesn’t make an appointment for a check-up is that they think if they don’t visibly see anything wrong and they are not experiencing any pain that there is no need to see a dentist. This simply is not true.
When you come in for a check-up for a thorough examination the dentists may find minor issues early and early treatment could avoid costly oral surgery. Think of your check-up as a just-in-case policy and if you get a clean bill of health will give you peace of mind.
Due to the mental association dentist’s offices often have with extreme discomfort many suffer from dental phobia. Fear makes finding an excuse to put off going to the dentist easier. Phobias are often mild and can be overcome on your own, but if you find the idea of going in to see the dentist for a check-up terrifying you may want to talk to a mental health professional about it.
Cleaning Visits
Regular deep cleaning visits are part of your treatment plan but, how often should you go to the dentist for a cleaning? Most experts agree that twice a year (every six months) cleaning visits are enough for most people, but depending on your personal hygiene habits and the current condition of your teeth you may require more.
You are Not Alone
Never fear your dentist. We are here for you and only want to help. We are not just a dentist’s office, but caregivers as well. Our top priority is serving our patients and giving you the best possible care.
Because you don’t see your dentist often doesn’t mean you can’t and won’t develop a strong relationship with us. Take the time to ask questions and examine your dental hygiene concerns and goals.
We would be happy to discuss everything with you and we will decide together a dental care plan and office visit schedule that will keep your teeth healthy and your dental visits pleasant.
Follow Best Oral Hygiene Practices
Regular checkups and cleanings are the appointments you can’t miss, but it is all up to you to take care of your teeth while you are away from the chair. Let’s take a moment to review ways to keep our teeth clean and our mouth happy.
Brushing
Brushing your teeth regularly and properly is the single most important thing you can do to keep your teeth strong and healthy. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Flossing
Brushing is not enough. Food likes to hide in those hard to reach spots between your teeth along your gum line. For a number of reasons flossing at least once a day is highly recommended.
Mouth Wash
After you brush and floss use mouthwash. Bacteria in your food break it down into acids that in turn eat away at the protective enamel of your teeth. Gurgle with mouthwash for thirty seconds to kill any bacteria left after brushing and flossing.
Avoid or Limit Certain Foods and Drinks
Sugary foods and drinks are notorious for tooth decay. Bacteria love sugar as much as we do and this sugar-loving bacterium promotes tooth decay. Not to say you can’t eat and drink sugar and still have great teeth, but you are going to need to brush good and often if you do.
Don’t Be a Stranger
How often should you go to the dentist? As often as needed to keep your teeth healthy, chewing strong, and smiling pretty, no more, no less.
The dentist’s office doesn’t have to be your regular hang out. However, many short trips to the dentist could avoid a few long unpleasant trips. It all starts with that first appointment back. Don’t delay any longer. Call 303-791-2570 today or send a message and we will get right back to you.