How often should you visit the dentist and have dental check-up?

Why regular dental visits matter

Your mouth is full of bacteria, and while daily brushing and flossing help keep most of it under control, professional cleanings and exams do even more. Routine visits allow your dentist to:

• Remove hardened plaque (tartar) that can’t be brushed away
• Catch cavities before they grow larger and become painful
• Spot early signs of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated
• Check for signs of oral cancer or other serious conditions

Visiting your dentist regularly isn’t just about your smile—it’s also about protecting your overall health.

The general rule: Every 6 months

For most people, visiting the dentist every six months is the gold standard. That’s why you’ll often hear the phrase “twice a year.” This schedule allows your dental team to keep your teeth clean and monitor for issues before they turn into bigger (and more expensive) problems.

But it’s not one-size-fits-all

While twice a year is typical, it’s not universal. Some patients may need to come more or less frequently based on individual needs. For example:

• If you have a history of gum disease, your dentist may recommend visits every 3-4 months to prevent flare-ups and to keep on top of things.
• If you’re prone to cavities, more frequent cleanings can help keep decay at bay or allow your dentist to catch it early.
• If you have excellent oral health, your dentist might suggest stretching it to every 9-12 months—though this is less common.

Pregnant women, smokers, diabetics, and people with weakened immune systems might also benefit from more frequent visits. It all depends on your personal risk factors.

What about children and dental check-up?

Children should typically start seeing the dentist by age one or within six months of their first tooth coming in. From there, visits every six months help keep little teeth healthy, catch issues early, and teach good habits that last a lifetime.

Why waiting until it hurts is a mistake

One of the biggest dental myths is that if nothing hurts, there’s no problem. Unfortunately, many dental problems don’t cause pain until they’re advanced. Cavities can grow for months (or even years) without obvious symptoms. Gum disease is often silent until it’s already caused significant damage.

By the time you feel pain, treatment is usually more extensive and expensive. Routine exams and cleanings are a simple, cost-effective way to avoid that.

Bottom line: your dentist knows best

While “every six months” is a great rule of thumb, the best schedule is the one customized for you. During your next visit, ask us how often you should come in based on your unique needs.

Keep your smile healthy for life

If it’s been more than six months since your last dental check-up, now’s the perfect time to schedule an appointment. If you’re based in High Wycombe, Beaconsfield, Marlow, or Amersham, The Willows Dental Surgery is your trusted local dentist—book your appointment today! We’re here to keep your teeth and gums healthy, so you can smile with confidence for years to come