It’s crucial to see a dentist regularly to maintain your oral health. However, you may wonder how frequently you should visit and when to know it’s time. Since your dental health can affect other aspects of your body’s health, it’s important to answer these questions before scheduling your next appointment. 

How Often Should You Visit a Dentist?

If you’re not experiencing any problems, schedule an appointment at least once every six months. The same is true for young children, who should begin seeing a dentist regularly after their baby teeth begin to erupt.

Patients who are diabetic, HIV positive, undergoing cancer treatment, pregnant, or regular tobacco users should consider going more often—every three months. These circumstances can cause chronic dental issues that may need frequent intervention. A dentist or hygienist can help you determine when to schedule appointments and if there are issues that require follow-up exams. 

How Can You Tell When You Need to Go? 

There may be times when you make an appointment before the six-month mark hits. If you’re experiencing unusual dental problems, you should contact your dentist right away.

Some issues may point to cavities, diseases, or failing treatments that require a dentist’s attention to resolve. Symptoms could include:

• Toothache 

• Tooth sensitivity 

• Chipped or cracked teeth 

• Bleeding or swollen gums 

• Persistent mouth sores 

• Dry mouth 

• Discomfort when chewing or moving your jaw 

• Damage or distortion in an existing treatment, such as fillings, braces, Invisalign®, dentures, veneers, or dental implants 

How Are Regular Oral Exams Beneficial? 

If you’re struggling with a dental health issue, immediate action can prevent problems from worsening and making it difficult to live your daily life as normal. Regular exams, dental cleanings, and X-ray technology can help catch symptoms of otherwise unnoticeable issues before they become serious.

Even when there are no particular problems to address, having a dentist regularly clean and examine your teeth and gums guarantees your oral health will remain in excellent condition.

If it’s time to schedule your next dentist appointment, contact Lakeside Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Austin, TX. With his expertise in general and advanced dentistry, Dr. Vincent Morales is happy to assist in your oral health journey and treat any problems you’re experiencing. His team offers comprehensive education to prevent your dental health from deteriorating. He and his compassionate staff prioritize building client relationships based on trust, care, and dedication to long-term dental health. To check their availability, call them today at (512) 249-5555 or message them online.