Common wisdom will tell you to go to the dentist every six months, but you may be wondering if this general recommendation really applies to you — especially if you’re cavity-free. About 38 percent of adults haven’t been to a dentist in the past year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Knowing the importance of regular dental checkups and how often you really need to go is a must if you want to maintain good overall health without breaking the bank.
General Recommendations
Every six months is a good rule of thumb, however, one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to oral care. The American Dental Association (ADA) says that while it’s fine for some people to see a dentist just once a year, others need to go more frequently. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends kids see a dentist every six months, but individual needs vary. Your dentist will determine how often you need to go based on your personal oral health (and general health) history.
When Once Yearly Is OK
Generally speaking, if you’re in good health and have a low risk for gum disease, seeing a dentist once yearly may be perfectly adequate. Being cavity-free, not having chronic diseases, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a well-balanced diet low in added sugar and avoiding tobacco products all put you in a lower risk category, which means your dentist may approve you for annual checkups.
When to Go More Often
Patients who have an increased risk of developing gum disease should see a dentist more often than once or twice per year, according to the ADA. Some gum disease risk factors identified by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) are age, tobacco use, genetics, and certain medications and chronic conditions. If you have a history of cavities or extensive plaque buildup, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Effects on Overall Health
Poor oral health may affect your overall health, which is why it is so important to go to the dentist regularly. While a cause-and-effect relationship isn’t entirely clear, gum disease is associated with certain chronic diseases, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, according to Frontiers in Public Health. The AAP notes that treating inflammation associated with gum disease may help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory diseases and cancer.
Importance of Dental Visits
While proper brushing and flossing greatly reduces your risk of developing oral health problems, seeing a dentist regularly is invaluable. He or she can catch problems such as cavities, gum disease, tooth fractures, bone loss, and jaw damage caused by grinding or clenching before these issues become severe. Spotting such problems early can save you money in the long run and help prevent unnecessary pain and suffering.
Getting Dental Coverage
Even if your teeth are perfect now, it is still a good idea to have dental coverage. In addition to providing valuable financial assistance should you need major dental work, many dental plans will cover most of the cost of preventive services, such as routine checkups, cleanings and X-rays. If your company offers dental coverage and you are not currently enrolled in a dental plan, open enrollment is a good time to add this benefit. Visit My TotalSource® today to learn more about available dental plans.