Our calendars sure get busy. Studies conducted in recent years indicate that many adults get as little as 26 minutes of free time each week. And, when it comes to the tasks that Americans prioritize the least, dentists’ visits and doctors’ visits are towards the top of the list. But we must find time not only to schedule our dentist visit but to make it happen too. When we neglect these critical visits, it can lead to more severe medical and dental issues down the road.

How often should you have a dentist visit?

A good rule of thumb for determining how often you should have a dentist visit is twice per year. That said, the actual frequency of having a dental examination will vary based on your own needs. Your oral hygiene, habits, and medical conditions will all play a role in what is suitable for you. So, though most people can get by with visiting their dentist once every six months, specific individuals may need to go more often. Higher risk groups who should see the dentist more than once every six months include:

• Diabetics.
• People with gum disease.
• People with a weak immune response.
• People who are prone to cavities or plaque build-up.
• Pregnant women.
• Smokers.

But don’t worry, if you are in the high-risk category and haven’t been to the dentist in awhile, it isn’t too late to start now. In fact, scheduling an appointment with a good Omaha dentist is the first step in improving your oral health and starting good habits.

What to Expect at Your Dentist Visit

Perhaps you haven’t been to the dentist in a while. If that is the case, you might be wondering what to expect the next time you visit the dentist. Your first appointment at The Tooth Doc will start with Dr. Matz or Dr. Ellingson assessing your overall dental and oral health via a complete oral evaluation. After completing your medical and dental health questionnaire, we will ask you questions about your smile and oral health goals. We’ll take digital photos and X-rays to identify areas of decay, cracked teeth, and any potentially malfunctioning restorations. We want to preserve as many of your teeth as possible, and we can do that when we take the proper steps to catch decay in the earliest stages. We also assess your gums to identify potential signs of gum disease and determine if a treatment plan is necessary.

If it isn’t your first appointment with us and you’re wondering what to expect at your dentist visit, your visit will be much the same as a first-time appointment. We’ll ask if anything has changed since your last visit, so, be sure to tell us about any concerns you have, whether dental or medical, as your oral health is linked to your overall health. We’ll then conduct a thorough oral examination, and we’ll professionally clean your teeth.

When should my child have their first dentist appointment?

If you are planning for your child’s first dentist visit, we suggest that you bring them in when their first tooth appears. We pay special attention to ensure that children’s dental visits are both fun and fear-free. After all, a lifetime of good oral health begins when teeth first appear. Yes, of course, baby teeth will eventually fall out, but parents, children, and dentists must partner together to keep those teeth healthy so that your child’s permanent teeth can come in healthily and safely.

In addition, the Tooth Doc team treats children gently to help them avoid anxiety at the dentist when they become adults. So, we practice positive reinforcement measures and offer “happy air” (nitrous oxide) if needed so that children can receive the dental care that they need for a healthy and happy mouth.

9 Reasons to Have a Dentist Visit Every Six Months

If you are still questioning why you should have a dentist visit twice per year, check out the following list of reasons:

1. Visiting the dentist every six months will help catch small problems before they become big ones.
2. Professional cleanings help prevent tooth decay.
3. During your dentist visit, your dentist will screen for oral cancer, gum disease, and other serious medical conditions.
4. A bright, while smile is far more likely when you see the dentist regularly, and a bright, white smile is often associated with self-confidence and happiness.
5. By visiting the dentist, you are protecting your oral health, and your overall health too.
6. Your dentist will keep tabs on past dental work and will know when certain treatments need to be revisited or monitored.
7. You can empower yourself with the practical knowledge that comes with a regular trip to the dentist.
8. Having a dentist visit every six months sets a good example for your children.
9. Going to the dentist regularly will save you money in the long run when you avoid costly restorative procedures.

Schedule your dentist visit in Omaha at The Tooth Doc.

If you are wondering when to go to the dentist and it has been over six months, then the time to go is now. Request an appointment using our online form or text us to get on the calendar. We can’t wait to see you or your child so that we can help you achieve the oral care you deserve and need. We look forward to meeting you.