Why should you visit the dentist every 6 months?

We all know looking after your teeth and gums is important, however recent data shows that only 48.8% of adults in this study had a dental check-up in the past 12 months. This means more than half of these Australian adults had not visited the dentist in a 12 month period. 

So why do we recommend you visit the dentist every six months? 

To check for cavities

Latest Australian data shows that 32.1% of people (15+) have untreated tooth decay. Most dentists recommend a check-up every six months to examine for plaque, tartar, gum disease and signs of tooth decay. 

As they say, prevention is better than a cure, and often by the time you start to feel tooth pain the problem has already developed into a bigger issue. Regular dental examinations will allow your dentist to check for any signs of problems before they get worse. 

To clean your teeth

Want sparkling clean teeth? Unfortunately, even the most conscientious brushes can’t compete with a professional teeth clean carried out by a dentist. While we definitely recommend brushing your teeth at home twice daily as it helps maintain your oral health, we also recommend a professional teeth clean at least every six months. 

During a professional clean your dentist will scale your teeth, removing any calculus, which is the hardened plaque that builds up over time. This can’t be cleaned with a regular toothbrush and removing it will help improve the health of your gums. 

To check your oral hygiene habits

You’d be surprised by the amount of adults who aren’t sure how to floss or brush their teeth properly. At your regular 6-monthly appointment our dentist will ensure you’re looking after your teeth in the best way possible.

Our dentists can identify any teeth that may not be being cleaned properly when you’re brushing and can show you the best method of flossing between your teeth. 

To take X-rays 

Unfortunately, not all teeth problems can be seen with the naked eye. Every so often it’s helpful to take an x-ray of your teeth and gums to check that everything is how it should be. 

To check for gum disease

Gum disease is very common and occurs when the gum around the teeth becomes infected. There are two types of gum disease, gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis is milder and reversible, but if left untreated turns into periodontitis, which causes swelling and eventually affects the bones around the teeth, which can make them fall out.

Your dentist will check for any redness or swelling, whether your teeth bleed when you brush, bad breath, loose or sensitive teeth and gums that are receding. Catching gum disease early will help prevent it from getting worse and help you maintain great oral health. 

It’s important to have regular check-ups at the dentist, not only to prevent gum disease, but because periodontitis can also be a symptom of other diseases such as diabetes. 

Should you visit the dentist more often than every six months? 

There are a number of factors that put you at more risk of dental problems, which may mean you need more regular visits to the dentist than every six months. These include: 

• Tooth pain.
• If you have gum disease.
• If you’re prone to cavities.
• Severe dry mouth.
• Recent tooth decay.
• Smokers.
• Pregnancy.
• Diabetics.
• If you have poor immune response to bacterial infections. 

At The Practice we love seeing our patients every six months and are firm believers of staying on top of dental care with regular check-ups and teeth cleans. We’ll send you a friendly reminder to ensure you don’t miss your next appointment. 

If you, or someone in your family is due for a six-monthly check-up, book an appointment online or call us on (07) 3733 3223.