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Aside from brushing and flossing, regular visits to the dentist are essential to oral health. There are simply aspects of dental care you can’t address without the right tools and expertise. However, the question remains as to how often you should schedule a visit. Many know to come in at least once a year for a cleaning and will otherwise only make an appointment if they’re experiencing discomfort.

Recommended Visits if Your Teeth Are in Good Shape

dentist-lisa-tatum-dds Oral health is different for everyone, but for the average, healthy patient, two visits to the dentist each year are recommended. These checkups are meant to inspect health and don’t include appointments made because of pain, suspected cavities, and other issues.

During these routine oral exams, dentists are looking for signs of gum issues, symptoms of decay, and other factors that could signal problems in the future. They’ll also provide more comprehensive cleaning around the gumline and between teeth where at-home brushing and flossing can’t reach. Two of these wellness checkups each year is considered enough if you’re in excellent condition, though shouldn’t be supplemented for appointments made for other reasons.

Visits for Those With Pain or a Condition

Two times each year isn’t enough for everyone, though. If you’re dealing with issues like gum disease, infection, or damaged teeth, visits to the dentist may need to be more frequent. Many conditions require ongoing treatment and possibly surgery, so your dentist will likely create a personalized plan based on your needs.

If you’re recovering from any dental procedures, like a filling or dentures, you should also see the dentist more than twice each year. These treatments need a follow-up exam to ensure that no new problems developed and you’re getting the care you need.

 

Whether you need an oral exam or more extensive treatment, turn to Lisa Tatum, DDS, in Waynesboro, VA. She offers a variety of treatments and services, including cosmetic and restorative dentistry, and will ensure you’re taking proper care of your oral health. Call (540) 943-0973 today to schedule an appointment with a dentist and visit her website and Facebook to learn more about what she offers.

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