How Often Should I Visit My Dentist?

Are dental visits a priority for you? Regular visits help you keep your smile fresh and clean and may reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Bedford and Keller, TX, dentist Dr. Phu Le of Advanced Family Dental offers checkups and dental treatments for your entire family.

Am I visiting the dentist often enough?

Most people need to see the dentist every six months. During those visits to your Bedford or Keller dentist, you'll receive an examination, an oral cancer screening, and a dental cleaning. Some visits may also include a few X-rays. Problems with your teeth don't always become obvious until they're fairly advanced. Unfortunately, major problems tend to require extensive dental treatment. When you visit the dentist every six months, issues can be diagnosed when they're minor and easy to treat.

Regular dental visits also include dental cleanings. During your cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth with special instruments. Although you probably brush your teeth twice a day, you may not be able to remove every bit of plaque from inaccessible areas. If plaque remains on these areas, you may be more likely to develop tooth decay.

Tartar, a hard, brown substance forms on your teeth if plaque remains on your teeth too long. It may irritate your sensitive gum tissue and cause gum disease, particularly if it forms below the gum line. Cleanings gently scrape away tartar, reducing your risk of gum disease.

Do I ever need to see the dentist more frequently?

Although experts recommend that you visit the dentist every six months, that timeframe isn't right for everyone. For example, your dentist may suggest that you visit more often if you're prone to developing cavities or have severe tartar buildup. More frequent visits may also be needed if you are being treated for gum disease, are straightening your teeth with clear braces, or are restoring or improving your smile with cosmetic dentistry treatments.

Same-day appointments may be necessary if you experience a dental emergency. Common emergencies include knocked out teeth, loose teeth, fractured teeth, facial lacerations, and dental abscesses.

Protect your smile by visiting the dentist every six months. Schedule a visit with Dr. Le of Advanced Family Dental by calling (817) 354-7840 for the Bedford, TX, office or (817) 337-0072 for the Keller, TX, office.