Most people know they should see the dentist regularly, but how often should you get a dental checkup? For most children and adults the answer is every six months, but the right schedule depends on your own teeth and health. Here is how we decide at Care Dental Spa.

Why every six months?

Plaque that you miss when brushing hardens into tartar within days, and only a professional cleaning can remove it. A visit twice a year lets us clean away tartar before it irritates your gums, and spot small cavities while they are still easy to fix.

What happens at a checkup?

  • A gentle cleaning to remove plaque and tartar and polish your teeth.
  • An exam of your teeth, gums, bite and existing fillings or crowns.
  • Digital X-rays when needed, which use far less radiation than older film X-rays.
  • An oral cancer screening, a quick check of your mouth, tongue and throat.

Who may need checkups more often?

Some patients do best with a visit every three or four months, including people who:

  • Have had gum disease, or have gums that bleed easily
  • Get cavities often
  • Have diabetes, or are pregnant (both can affect the gums)
  • Smoke or use tobacco
  • Wear braces or have dental implants

When should children start seeing the dentist?

Children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. Early visits help children feel comfortable in the dental chair and let us spot problems early. Sealants and fluoride treatments add extra protection as they grow.

Family checkups in Temple, TX

We see patients of every age, from toddlers to grandparents, in a calm, spa-like setting. Many families book back-to-back appointments so everyone is seen in one trip.

It is easy to request your next checkup online, or learn more about our dental cleanings and exams.