When was the last time you saw your dentist? Many people don’t think about getting regular dental checkups, but by ignoring them, they could be putting their health at risk. If you haven’t seen a dentist for some time, or if you’ve had any new issues crop up since your last visit, then it may be time for an exam.
How do you know when its time to schedule your next dental checkup? Here are three telltale signs that you’re due for an appointment at a general dentistry office:
1. You have concerns about your teeth.
If there’s one type of health problem that everyone wants to avoid, it’s problems with the teeth. An estimated 92% of adults in the U.S. between the ages of 20 and 64 have had dental caries (or cavities) in their permanent teeth at least once in their lifetimes. These types of issues can cause major complications further down the road if they’re not taken care of promptly.
2. You require a special treatment.
Whether you need new dentures or you’re interested in cosmetic dental procedures, a dental appointment is necessary. Because about 32% of dental patients report being concerned about how their teeth look, many opt for special treatments to replace missing teeth, like dentures or dental implants, or improve the look of the teeth they already have. Many choose teeth whitening, and of those, 82% say that they saw a notable difference in the look of their teeth after a professional whitening. Make sure that you ask about what cosmetic procedures you may be eligible for.
3. You haven’t had an appointment in six months or more.
Dental cleanings should take place twice per year, or once every six months, in order to keep teeth clean and take care of any potential problems. Children should also have appointments every six months, so they can keep their teeth healthy, so make sure your children visit a family dental office, too. They may be eligible for a dental sealant — something used on about 30% of six- to 11-year-olds — to keep their teeth healthy.