Do you know how often you need to visit a dentist? If this is a gray area that requires further research, you have come to the right place. Read on to learn the recommended schedule for seeing your dentist.

How Often Do You Need to See a Dentist?

When it comes to children, the dentist may ask to see the child every six months. This should start once the child turns one, or as soon as his or her first tooth comes in. There are a few reasons why kids should visit their dentists at this frequency. The more important is that the practice of good dental hygiene starts at a young age, and children must learn the proper way in which to care for their teeth and gums. Also, the dentist will want to conduct an examination to determine that there are no serious dental issues. Going to visit a dentist at an early age will make a child feel more comfortable with the whole routine.

Adults ideally should go to the dentist once every year. However, this can vary from person to person. The dentist will advise you on the appropriate schedule for checkups, as well as any procedures that may need to be done on a regular basis. Those individuals who have been diagnosed with oral health issues, including gum disease and oral cancer, will be expected to come into the office more often. Also, someone who has several cavities and a large build-up of tartar will be asked to visit frequently. Insurance can dictate the frequency of visits, in order to allow the individual to take advantage of his or her full insurance benefits.

In addition to the above reasons, an individual may need to go to the dentist more often in the following instances:

• Pregnancy, as this can cause gum inflammation and other oral health problems.
• Diabetes, as this can make someone at a higher risk of fungal infections, gum disease, and various other oral health issues.
• HIV-positive individuals are at a higher risk of dental infections and decay, especially if they are receiving treatments.
• Cancer patients who are receiving treatments that may cause dental infection and dry mouth.
• Smokers, as this can make someone at risk for oral cancer and periodontitis.
• Individuals who have heart disease can benefit greatly from having dental cleanings on a regular basis, as this can reduce one’s risk of having a stroke or heart attack.