How Often Should You Visit the Dentist and Why It Matters

heidiastauffer
Aug 4
2 min read

We’ve all heard the advice: “Visit your dentist every six months.” But is that really necessary? And what happens if you skip a few visits?

Let’s break down how often you should go to the dentist, and why those visits are more important than you might think.

The General Rule: Twice a Year

For most people, visiting the dentist every six months is ideal. These twice-yearly visits allow your dental team to:

Catch problems early, like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer
Clean areas you can’t reach, even with great brushing and flossing
Remove tartar buildup that can’t be cleaned off at home
Track changes in your teeth and gums over time

In many cases, these checkups prevent small issues from becoming bigger (and more expensive) problems later.

But Everyone’s Mouth Is Different

While the “twice a year” rule works for many, some people may need more frequent visits. You might need to see your dentist every 3–4 months if you:

Have gum disease or a history of periodontal issues
Smoke or use tobacco products
Have diabetes, which can impact oral health
Are prone to cavities or plaque buildup
Are undergoing orthodontic treatment
Have a weakened immune system

Your dentist will tailor a schedule based on your personal health history, habits, and risk factors.

What Happens If You Skip Visits?

Skipping dental visits might not seem like a big deal until you have a toothache or an emergency. Delaying care can lead to:

Untreated cavities, which may require root canals or extractions
Progressing gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss
Missed signs of oral cancer or other serious conditions
Increased costs due to more invasive treatments down the road

Think of regular dental visits like oil changes for your car — a small investment that helps prevent major problems later.

Bottom Line

Most people benefit from seeing the dentist every 6 months, but some may need more frequent care. These visits are about more than just clean teeth, they’re key to protecting your health, your smile, and your wallet.

When was your last dental visit? If it’s been more than 6 months, it’s probably time to schedule one.

Book an Appointment Now

Come see us at Stauffer Family Dental in Westerville, OH. We are accepting new patients - we're here to help keep your smile strong and cavity-free!

You can schedule an appointment online or call us at 614-882-2249 to discuss your dental needs.