"I'll go to the dentist when something hurts." We hear this more often than you'd think. But by the time you feel pain, the problem has usually progressed far beyond what a simple check-up could have caught.
The Standard Recommendation: Every 6 Months
Most dental professionals recommend a check-up and professional cleaning every 6 months. This frequency allows us to catch problems early — small cavities, early gum disease, and other issues that are much simpler (and cheaper) to treat when detected early.
Why Not Just Once a Year?
Plaque hardens into tartar within 24-72 hours, and tartar can only be removed professionally. Over 12 months, significant tartar buildup can lead to gum inflammation and early-stage gum disease. Six-monthly cleanings prevent this cycle.
Some People May Need More Frequent Visits
If you have gum disease, diabetes, are a smoker, are pregnant, or have a weakened immune system, your dentist may recommend visits every 3-4 months. These conditions increase your risk of dental problems.
What Happens During a Check-Up?
A typical check-up includes a visual examination, checking for cavities and gum health, oral cancer screening, X-rays (if needed), professional scaling and polishing, and personalised advice for your home care routine.
The Cost of Prevention vs. Treatment
A routine scaling costs a fraction of what a root canal or crown would cost. Regular check-ups are an investment in preventing expensive treatments down the road.
When was your last dental check-up? If it's been more than 6 months, it's time. Book your appointment at Louis Dental Surgery today.