How Often Should You Visit the Dentist
Regular dental visits protect oral health, help prevent problems, and keep treatment simple when issues are found early. This evidence based guide explains recommended checkup frequency for different ages and risk levels, what happens during a routine exam, and when to come in sooner.
Ready to book a routine visit in Ludlow? See our page on dental check ups and cleaning for appointment details and what to expect.
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist
Most people benefit from a dental checkup at intervals advised by their dentist based on individual risk. For many adults this is often every six months, while some may be seen every three to four months and others every nine to twelve months. Your personal schedule depends on your oral hygiene, diet, gum health, medical history, and previous dental treatment. Children and people with active gum disease often need more frequent reviews.
Why regular visits matter
- Early detection of tooth decay and gum inflammation
- Professional cleaning to remove plaque and hardened deposits
- Tailored prevention advice for diet, fluoride use, and home care
- Lower chance of urgent treatment by addressing issues early
Prevention is usually simpler and more comfortable than repair
What affects your interval
- History of cavities or gum disease
- Smoking or high sugar diet
- Dry mouth from medication or health conditions
- Orthodontic treatment where plaque control is more difficult
Children and teens
Children benefit from regular reviews to monitor growth, check for early decay, and support good brushing habits. Your dentist will advise the right interval for your child. Protective treatments may be recommended when helpful, and advice will be tailored to age and risk.
Adults with gum disease or higher risk
If you have a history of gum disease or you currently have inflammation, you may need more frequent visits to help control plaque and support healing. Your dentist or hygienist will agree a recall plan that suits your needs and review it over time.
What happens during a routine dental exam
| Step |
What it involves |
Why it helps |
| Health review |
Updates on your medical history and medications |
Checks for factors that may affect oral health |
| Clinical check |
Assessment of teeth, gums, bite, and soft tissues |
Finds early signs of problems before symptoms start |
| Clean and polish |
Removal of plaque and deposits where appropriate |
Reduces inflammation and freshens the smile |
| X rays when indicated |
Targeted images only when clinically justified |
Helps to detect hidden decay between teeth |
| Personalised advice |
Diet, fluoride, and home care guidance |
Supports long term oral health |
For a deeper look at what happens at an appointment, read our blog on the importance of regular dental checkups.
When to book sooner
- Toothache, swelling, or sensitivity that persists
- Bleeding gums or loose teeth
- Broken filling, chipped tooth, or lost crown
- Trauma to the mouth or jaw
If you need urgent advice, our page on emergency dentistry explains how to reach the team.
Treatment paths if problems are found
Smile alignment and replacement
For straighter teeth many adults choose Invisalign Ludlow. If a tooth is missing, dental implants Ludlow can help restore function and confidence. Patients visit us from nearby areas including Leominster, Craven Arms, and Bridgnorth.
Does dental insurance cover checkups
Cover varies by policy. Many plans contribute toward routine exams and cleans up to annual limits. Please check your documents and speak with your provider. Our reception team can supply receipts and treatment plans to support claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people do well with six month reviews. Some benefit from three to four month intervals and others are suitable for nine to twelve months. Your dentist will recommend what is right for you after assessing your risk.
Children are reviewed at intervals advised by the dentist based on growth and risk. Regular visits support healthy habits and allow early prevention.
People with active gum inflammation often benefit from more frequent visits for monitoring and professional cleaning. Your recall plan will be tailored to your needs.
The dentist reviews your health, examines teeth and gums, may take x rays when indicated, and provides personalised prevention advice. A clean is carried out where appropriate.
For tailored advice and a personal recall plan, visit our team at Corve Dental. If you are considering straightening or replacing teeth, explore Invisalign in Ludlow and dental implants in Ludlow to see how these options may fit your goals.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace a clinical examination. A dentist will advise on diagnosis, frequency of visits, and treatment options that are appropriate for you.