Do You Really Need to Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months?
Six months; the number written on the posters we’ve passed in so many dental waiting rooms, and the advice most of us were told to follow growing up. But is it really a universal truth or was this just an easy number to remember as a target?
Do You Really Need to Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months?
History of the Six-Month Rule
The six-month rule has been used for decades as a simple guideline and a target to reach, not necessarily as a personal risk-based prescription.
Why One Size Does Not Fit All
There are people who can go years without an issue and those who will be faced with new cavities and gum problems at every 6-month cleaning. There are many different risk factors that can affect why one person needs more regular check-ups than another. That’s why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t suit anyone.
Potential Risk Factors
- Personal history of cavities and gum disease
- Orthodontic treatment
- Dry mouth (either from a medical condition or medication use)
- Tobacco use
- Medical conditions (especially diabetes)
- Pregnancy
- Dental work that requires monitoring
Potential Risk Factors
Some people with excellent oral hygiene and no history of previous dental problems, combined with normal saliva production and no additional risk factors, may even be prescribed a longer time frame in between cleanings.
Potential Risk Reductions
Children Often Require More Frequent Monitoring
A child’s teeth and jaws are still developing, new teeth are coming through and, for some children, tooth decay can be an issue. For this reason, check-ups more frequently than every six months are often prescribed. However, it will vary from child to child, depending on their individual needs.
What Happens at a Routine Six-Month Examination?
A six-month examination is much more than just checking for cavities, it involves;
- Checking the condition of your gums
- Looking for any early signs of decay
- Reviewing your existing dental work
- An oral cancer screening
- A review of any issues or concerns since your last visit
- And, x-rays if and when they are required – not at every appointment.
The Importance of X-Rays
X-rays are an essential part of any oral examination, they help identify problems not visible to the naked eye, for instance, decay between teeth or issues below the gumline. The frequency of x-rays will be dependent on your individual risk factors, which ties back into why a six-monthly check-up isn’t always suitable.
Symptoms in Between Check-Ups Should Not Be Ignored
Even with a personalised recall system in place, new concerns should not be ignored or saved for your next regularly scheduled cleaning. Pain and discomfort should be treated as soon as possible, and not left to be resolved at your next six-monthly appointment.
So, What Should You Do?
You shouldn’t think of six months as a benchmark. This is a number that should be changed to fit your own individual risk factors, and not a target everyone must reach no matter their circumstances.
A Gentle Reminder
The best way to determine your own individual risk factors and ideal time frame in between cleanings and examinations is to speak with your dentist and have an examination. At Mumtaj Dental Care we practice Preventive Dentistry. Part of that philosophy is figuring out what works best for you, rather than telling every patient the same thing.
