According to WebMD there are many factors that should be considered when determining how often you should go to the dentist. Some of these factors include:

Lifestyle. If you drink or smoke often, you may need to see the dentist more frequently. Studies show that people who drink alcohol have a three times higher rate of permanent tooth loss than the national average in the United States, and tobacco usage is linked to common oral diseases.

Attitude. If you are dedicated to your oral hygiene, your oral health will be better than if you aren’t diligent to keep good oral hygiene habits. The more you commit to keeping your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy, the less likely it is that you’ll need to see the dentist often.

Biology. There are certain things about your dental health that you simply won’t be able to change. If you’re prone to getting cavities, you’ll need to take extra steps to fight them. If you have a family history of certain oral diseases, you’ll need extra attention from your dentist.

Access. Preventative actions are a great way to maintain your oral hygiene, but if you can’t easily access the products and services you need to take care of your oral health, you’re more likely to need frequent dental checkups. ‌

So, How Often Should I Go to the Dentist?

In general, it is recommended for individuals to go to the dentist for a check-up and cleaning every 6 to 12 months. Visiting the dentist every six months helps to catch early warning signs of dental problems and oral cancer. Some individuals may benefit from seeing the dentist more frequently, such as

Pregnant women
Smokers
Diabetics
People living with gum disease
People that have a weak immune response
People who have a history of cavities or plaque build-up

Common Symptoms of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay can fly under the radar for individuals that are not seeing their dentist regularly. This is because, in some cases, decay can occur without any pain. Listed below are some of the most common symptoms of tooth decay to look out for:

Toothache: While dental pain is not always present, experiencing continuous dental pain, or sharp pains in your mouth when at rest, can be a sign of dental decay. Schedule a regular dental check-up to discuss this with your dentist.

Tooth Sensitivity: Some individuals will experience tooth sensitivity even when their teeth are in health condition. However, if you notice tenderness or pain to cold or warm liquids or food, this can be a symptom of tooth decay.

Tooth discoloration: Teeth with a grey, brown or black appearance should be inspected by your dentist.

Bad Breath: If you notice you have bad breath, even after you have brushed your teeth and used mouthwash, this can be a symptom of tooth decay.

Prioritize Your Dental Health

A healthy life starts with a healthy smile. Neglecting to take care of your dental health can lead to painful, expensive, and irreversible damage to your smile. Our dentists Dr. Brian L. Porter or Dr. Kelley Joo, work with patients to help them take charge of their dental health. Schedule your dental check-up by reaching out to Brian L. Porter, DDS at 281-422-3415 today.

Brian L. Porter, DDS
1109 E. James Ave.
Baytown, TX 77520
281-422-3415
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