How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
Personalized recommendations for your oral health
The traditional answer is "every six months"—but that's not right for everyone. Your ideal dental visit schedule depends on your individual oral health, risk factors, and needs.
The General Recommendation
Adults: Every 9 Months
For most healthy adults, visiting the dentist every 9 months works well. This includes:
- Comprehensive exam – Checking teeth, gums, and oral tissues
- Professional cleaning – Removing plaque and tartar
- X-rays – Periodically as needed
- Oral cancer screening – Visual and tactile examination
This schedule catches problems early when they're easiest (and least expensive) to treat.
Children: Every 6 Months
Children benefit from more frequent visits due to developing teeth, cavity risk, and the importance of establishing good habits early.
But Everyone Is Different
You May Need More Frequent Visits If You Have:
Gum Disease
Active periodontal disease requires visits every 3-4 months for maintenance therapy. More frequent cleanings help control bacteria and prevent progression.
High Cavity Risk
If you're prone to cavities, more frequent monitoring catches decay early. Contributing factors include:
- Dry mouth
- High sugar diet
- History of many cavities
- Deep grooves in teeth
Diabetes
Diabetes increases gum disease risk. More frequent visits help manage this connection.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes increase gum inflammation risk. Many pregnant women benefit from an extra cleaning.
Smoking/Tobacco Use
Tobacco significantly increases risk of gum disease and oral cancer. More frequent monitoring is wise.
Weakened Immune System
Conditions or medications affecting immunity increase infection risk.
Current Dental Issues
Active treatment or monitoring of specific problems.
You Might Be Fine with Annual Visits If You:
- Have excellent oral health
- No history of cavities or gum disease
- Excellent home care
- Low-risk lifestyle
- Your dentist specifically recommends it
This is rare—most adults benefit from visits every 9 months.
Recommended Schedules by Group
Children
| Age | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| First visit | By age 1 or first tooth |
| Ages 1-3 | Every 6 months |
| Ages 3-18 | Every 6 months |
Children's teeth are more vulnerable to decay, and habits are being established. Regular visits are essential.
Adults (Low Risk)
Every 9 months for:
- Exam and cleaning
- Periodic X-rays
- Oral cancer screening
Adults (Higher Risk)
Every 3-4 months if you have:
- Gum disease
- Diabetes
- Frequent cavities
- Dry mouth
- Tobacco use
Seniors
Every 3-6 months depending on:
- Gum health
- Medications causing dry mouth
- Existing dental work needing monitoring
- Overall health status
Pregnant Women
- Continue regular schedule
- Consider extra cleaning in second trimester
- Address any gum inflammation promptly
What Happens If You Skip Visits?
The Progression
Skip 6 months:
- Plaque hardens into tartar
- Early decay may begin
- Gum inflammation starts
Skip 1 year:
- Tartar buildup significant
- Cavities may develop
- Gingivitis likely
Skip 2+ years:
- Cavities may become large
- Gum disease may progress
- Problems require more extensive treatment
- Costs increase significantly
The Math of Prevention
| Scenario | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 2 checkups + cleanings/year | $400-600 |
| Filling (caught early) | $150-300 |
| Root canal + crown (caught late) | $2,000-3,000 |
| Extraction + implant (too late) | $4,000-6,000 |
Prevention is always less expensive than treatment.
What Happens at a Checkup?
Comprehensive Exam
- Visual inspection of all teeth
- Gum health assessment
- Bite and jaw evaluation
- Oral cancer screening
- Review of X-rays
- Discussion of any concerns
Professional Cleaning
- Removal of plaque and tartar
- Cleaning below the gumline
- Polishing
- Flossing
- Fluoride treatment (if appropriate)
X-Rays (When Needed)
- Bitewings every 6-18 months
- Full series every 3-5 years
- As needed for specific concerns
Making the Most of Your Visits
Before Your Appointment
- Write down any concerns or questions
- Note any changes you've noticed
- Update your medication list
- Don't brush extra hard (we need to see your normal situation)
During Your Appointment
- Be honest about your home care
- Mention any sensitivity or discomfort
- Ask questions
- Discuss any cosmetic concerns
After Your Appointment
- Follow recommendations
- Schedule your next visit
- Maintain home care routine
Finding Your Ideal Schedule
Have a Conversation
The best schedule is personalized. Talk with your dentist about:
- Your oral health history
- Current risk factors
- Any concerns
- What makes sense for you
We'll recommend a schedule based on your individual needs—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Your Schedule, Your Health
Personalized Care for Every Patient
At BluSky Dental, we tailor your visit schedule to your specific needs. Whether you need visits every 3 months or annually, we'll work with you to maintain optimal oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
For most adults, every 9 months is ideal. This frequency catches problems early and maintains oral health. Those with gum disease or higher risk factors may need more frequent visits.
Children should visit every 6 months. Their developing teeth are more vulnerable to decay, and regular visits help establish good habits early.
We welcome you without judgment! We'll assess your current situation and create a plan to restore your oral health.
Most dental insurance covers preventive cleanings and exams. We'll verify your specific coverage.
We specialize in anxious patients. Tell us about your concerns—we have many ways to make visits comfortable.
Schedule Your Visit
How long has it been since your last checkup? There's no time like the present.
Call: (613) 728-1511
Address: 20 – 1620 Scott Street, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4S7
At BluSky we BEElieve in bringing life to your smile. 🐝