You might say it’s always a good idea to put your money where your mouth is, when it comes to taking care of your best asset – a healthy smile!
We all know that time and money spent on regular preventative oral care pays you back in better overall health and with increased social and professional opportunities. But do you know how often you should visit your dentist for a check-up and cleanings?
Most dentists will tell you to schedule a visit twice per year, or every six months. That’s still good advice, supported by the American Dental Association. Adults with certain risk factors, though, need to go in more frequently.
That advice is echoed by the results of recent studies. According to an article published in the New York Times online, adults with certain risk factors such as gingivitis should be more vigilant – and that’s almost half of us!
The statistic cited in the article says, “Almost half of adults age 30 and older, about 65 million, have a form of chronic inflammatory gum disease that can ultimately lead to tooth loss.”
If you have other additional risk factors — cigarette smoking, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, pregnancy – you really should visit your dentist to determine how frequently preventative care is needed.
The article goes on to make the case that some people without risk factors might be able to accomplish the same level of care by making visits to see the dentist only once per year.
But who wants to take the risk? For a complete list of good reasons to see a dentist, visit the American Dental Association website here. And don’t forget to check-in with your dentist to determine the plan that works best for you!