Maintaining good oral health is vital for overall health of the body. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of dental problems such as bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease and even tooth loss. That's why it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

But how often should you visit the dentist? And what can you expect during a dental checkup? Let’s explore why regular dental checkups are important and what you can expect during a typical dental checkup.

Why Regular Dental Checkups Are Important

Regular dental checkups are important for several reasons. First, they help to prevent dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. The dentist will look for any signs of possible cavity or gum disease. An early detection of dental problem is crucial as it can help prevent them from becoming more extensive and expensive treatment.

Regular dental checkups can also help prevent other health problems. Poor oral health can increase the risk of health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory infections. (For example, bacteria that is formed from having poor gum health, can travel down to the heart causing heart disease).

What to Expect During a Dental Checkup

During a dental checkup, the dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth. The examination will typically include the following:

Oral Examination - The dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.
Teeth Cleaning - The dentist will clean your teeth to remove any plaque or calculus buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the surface of the teeth. Calculus is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by regular brushing or flossing.
X-ray- The dentist may take X-rays of your teeth to identify any hidden dental problems, such as cavities and impacted teeth.
Education and Advice - The dentist will provide you with advice and education on how to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?

For most people, it is recommended to visit the dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. However, if you have a history of dental problems or have certain risk factors such as smoking or diabetes, the dentist may recommend more frequent visits to prevent cavity and gum disease.

Children should also visit the dentist regularly. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children should have their first dental visit by the age of one or within six months of their first tooth eruption. After the initial visit, children should visit the dentist every six months for routine checkups and cleanings.

In addition to regular dental checkups, there are other things you can do at home to maintain good oral health.

These include: