New Patients Welcome!
Regardless of whether you would consider your oral health pristine or not so extraordinary, you must go to the dentist regularly for cleanings, checkups, and necessary procedures. However, there’s still some confusion about how often you need to go.
Please keep reading for our quick and handy guide on how often you need to make appointments with your West Palm Beach dentist!
Rule of Thumb
The rule of thumb for both children and adults is to visit the dentist for cleanings every six months for oral exams and cleanings. Regardless of whether you consider your teeth in good shape, this standard timeframe is good for everyone to reduce plaque and tooth decay.
Even better, most insurance companies will cover both of these checkups if you have dental insurance, as they understand they’re essential preventative measures.
Keep in mind that the frequency of your visits can change depending on your dentist’s recommendation. For instance, if you’re a part of the below high-risk groups, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Cancer Patients
Cancer patients may be more at risk for dental health conditions since some medications can dry out their mouths. In addition, radiation therapy on the head and neck can also cause damage to the salivary glands, leading to a dry mouth.
In fact, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, one-third of cancer patients develop complications.
Heart Patients
Did you know that according to the Journal of Dental Research, people with tooth infections are 2.7 times more likely to have cardiovascular problems?
This link between heart disease and oral health has become more transparent, meaning that gum disease and tooth decay can worsen heart problems you may already have.
Pregnancy
A little-known fact is that pregnancy can make people more prone to dental health issues. According to the CDC, 50 to 75 percent of pregnant women have gingivitis because of their changing hormones.
Without treatment, this can progress into periodontitis or gum disease. This can lead to loose teeth that may need extraction and poor pregnancy outcomes, such as low birth weight.
Talk to Your Dentist Today
You’ll want to keep in mind that the general rule of thumb for both adults and children is to make a dental appointment every six months.
However, you’ll also want to speak with your dentist if you’re in a high-risk group and see if they recommend you come in more frequently. If so, you can significantly diminish the chances of developing gum disease, cavities, and more.
Ready to schedule your first appointment with us? Contact us online today or give us a call at (561) 585-5891!
