There is perhaps no dental-related question more common among people in Phoenix and Scottsdale than how often should I see a dentist. Such questioning can be natural, but it can also be problematic. Some people are anxious about seeing a dentist in Scottsdale and are looking for reasons to put off their visits. Others may lack insurance and are therefore concerned with costs are seeking to minimize them. Nevertheless, regular checkups are vital not just to your oral health but for your overall well-being.
The Rule of Thumb
The rule of thumb throughout Arizona and most of the United States is that you should see a dentist every six months, so twice a year. Some dentists, especially outside the U.S., recommend once a year for people with healthy gums and teeth. Be mindful that there are even scenarios where a dental checkup is required. There are, for instance, laws in Arizona that prevent a dentist in Phoenix from performing certain treatments if he or she has not conducted a checkup or confirmed that one has occurred recently.
The Right Answer Depends on the Individual
General rules are useful only generally. They serve as a guideline. The ideal answer is much more individualized than that. In other words, it depends greatly on you and the specific status of your oral health. If you haven’t seen a dentist for a long period, your dentist may recommend a more frequent schedule right now. Likewise, your dentist may spot a potential indicator that he or she wants to keep an eye on and so sets you next checkup for three rather than six months.
Lapsed Dental Care? See a Dentist Right Away
If you are someone who has put off dental visits for an extended period for any reason, then you should schedule a checkup with your local dentist as soon as possible. If it has been more than six months since your last visit and especially if it has been more than 12 months, than the time is now. In addition, don’t be surprised if your dentist recommends a more frequent schedule than every six months.
Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis can be cured. Many types of periodontal disease cannot be, and they not only affect oral health but systemic health due to inflammation. Patients with incurable gum disease often must visit a dentist every three months so that the teeth and gums can be cleaned and the disease kept in check.
