"Every six months" is the interval most people have heard, and it is a sensible starting point for many adults with healthy teeth and gums. But it is not a rule for everyone. Modern dental care bases the interval on your individual risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which can change over time.
Short answer: how often you should see a dentist depends on your risk factors, history and current oral health. Your dentist will recommend a review interval and explain why.
What influences your review interval
- Recent or current decay, and how many fillings you have had
- A history of gum disease or bleeding gums
- How well you clean and how often you floss or use interdental brushes
- Smoking and diet, particularly sugary and acidic drinks
- Medicines or medical conditions that affect the mouth, including dry mouth and diabetes
- Grinding, worn restorations or crowns
- Age, pregnancy and changes in saliva flow
Someone with active gum disease may be seen every few months for maintenance; someone with a healthy mouth and good habits may be advised to come less often than six months. The interval can change as your situation changes.
What happens at a check-up and clean
A typical visit includes a discussion of any symptoms, an examination of the teeth, gums and soft tissues, X-rays when they are due, a professional clean, and a conversation about what to do next. Our check-up and clean page explains the appointment in more detail.
Why intervals matter even when nothing hurts
Tooth decay and gum disease can both develop without pain. Small problems are usually quicker, simpler and less costly to manage than ones discovered after a tooth breaks or an infection spreads. Reviews are how silent problems are found early.
Due for a check-up?
Book a check-up and clean, or ask us what review interval is right for you at your next visit.
Related: check-up and clean, children's dentistry, gum disease treatment.