How often you should visit the dentist will depend on a number of factors, including your age, oral hygiene and existing medical conditions. As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that you attend a routine dental check-up twice a year. However, some individuals may need to visit the dentist more often to monitor any pre-existing problems.
At Lux Dental, our team of highly trained clinicians are dedicated to delivering exceptional dental examinations. Our goal is to proactively address potential concerns before they turn into bigger problems, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
During your consultation, we’ll delve into your medical history, conducting a meticulous examination of your oral health and completing a thorough oral screening. Our commitment is not just to treat existing problems, but to prevent future complications, ensuring your dental wellbeing is our top priority. To book a consultation, please get in touch.
How Long Does a Dental Check-Up Take?
A routine dental check-up typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, however, this can vary depending on the individual. During your consultation, your dentist will typically:
•Review Your Medical History
The dentist will begin by reviewing your medical history and discussing any changes or concerns you may have experienced since your last visit.
•Conduct a Visual Examination
To identify any visible issues such as cavities, plaque build-up and signs of gum disease, your dentist will conduct a visual assessment of the inside and outside of your mouth.
•Take X-Rays (If Required)
To gain a more comprehensive overview of your oral health, your dentist may suggest x-rays be taken. This can help to identify any issues that may not be noticeable during a visual examination.
•Check Existing Dental Work
If you have any existing dental work, such as fillings or crowns, your dentist will examine them to ensure they are in good condition.
•Conduct an Oral Cancer Screening
Some dental examinations include an oral cancer screening. This allows your dentist to check for any unusual lumps or sores in your mouth.
•Offer Advice and Guidance
Once the check-up is complete, your dentist will share their findings with you, explaining any issues and providing advice on how to maintain or improve your oral health.
Does a Dental Check-Up Include Cleaning?
Whether or not your routine dental check-up will include cleaning depends on the approach of your chosen dental practice. In most cases, if a deep cleaning is deemed necessary, your dentist will refer you to a dental hygienist.
These professionals specialise in removing plaque and tartar build-up, often performing a ‘scale and polish’ procedure to enhance the appearance of the teeth and increase resistance to the formation of plaque.
What Can Affect How Often You Need to Attend a Routine Dental Check-Up?
Not all patients need to visit the dentist as often as others. Generally, you’ll need to see your dentist more often if you:
- Have current oral health problems, such as gum disease, inflammation, tartar build-up and cavities
- Have experienced oral health issues in the past, or have a family history of dental problems
- Have other health issues such as diabetes or a weakened immune system
- Smoke
- Have a diet high in sugar and starch
- Practise poor oral hygiene
- Are pregnant
- Are under the age of 18.
How Often Should Children See the Dentist?
Regular dental examinations play a pivotal role in preventing tooth decay in children. The suggested frequency of routine dental check-ups can vary depending on the child’s age and oral health needs.
Typically, it’s advised that children under the age of one attend their first dental check-up within six months of cutting their first tooth. Following this initial visit, subsequent appointments should be attended regularly, with intervals determined by their dentist. For children aged between two and 18, it’s generally recommended to schedule routine dental appointments at least once a year.
This proactive approach to children’s care not only facilitates the early detection and prevention of potential issues, but also serves as a crucial preventative measure against the development of dental anxiety later in life.
How to Maintain Good Oral Health Between Routine Dental Check-Ups
Brush your teeth 2x a day for at least two minutes – Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Floss at least once a day – This helps to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth.
- Quit smoking – Smoking can trigger numerous health conditions, including gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your oral health.
- Use mouthwash – Rinse with mouthwash to help reduce plaque, fight bacteria and strengthen teeth.
- Eat a balanced diet – Limit your consumption of sugary snacks and beverages as they can contribute to tooth decay.
- Replace your toothbrush – Change your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three to four months to prevent the build-up of bacteria.
Visit Lux Dental
Now that you have a clear understanding of how often to visit the dentist, it’s time to start prioritising your oral health.
At Lux Dental, we encourage regular visits to our clinic to proactively address small problems before they escalate into more significant concerns. Whether you’re searching for a new practice in the Leicestershire area, or are a returning patient who hasn’t visited us in a while, our skilled team is ready and waiting to welcome you.
To schedule a routine dental check-up, please get in touch. Give us a call on 01509 621212 and speak to one of our friendly team members today.