It is important to take care of your teeth, as well as your family’s teeth, but where do you begin? It all starts with maintaining a strong daily dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing at home, but too many people overlook the importance of routine visits to your family dentist. Under the care of a skilled general or restorative dentistry expert, your teeth can stay healthy and last you a lifetime. But when do you need to visit the dentist? How often should you be scheduling an appointment for yourself or your children?

When Should I Go to the Dentist?

Nearly all dentists recommend visiting the dentist twice a year, or once every six months, for a routine check-up and teeth cleaning. For most people, this is sufficient for your dentist to keep plaque and tartar in check and treat any signs of decay before they become too serious. If you are considered a high risk patient, however - if you have weak enamel, for example, and are more prone to cavities than the average patient - then your dentist may recommend that you come in three or even four times a year for closer assessment.

If you are suffering from a toothache, or swelling and pain in the gums, it is certainly time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. This could be a sign of severe decay or an infection requiring immediate attention. Many general dentistry and family dentistry offices are on call for emergency visits for adults and children, even after hours and during the weekend.

When Should I Take My Children to the Dentist?

Maintaining the dental health of your children is critical. While primary teeth may fall out, they pave the way for adult teeth. Baby teeth are still prone to cavities and decay, which can in turn lead to pain and gum problems if left unchecked. To make sure that this does not happen, it is up to you to ensure that your children are seeing the family dentist on a regular basis. But when should your children be visiting the dentist?

Many dentists recommend that you bring your child in for a first visit to the dentist by his or her first birthday. This should be enough time for several teeth to have fully erupted. During this visit, your dentist can make sure that you are cleaning your child’s teeth properly and that those first teeth are free of any early signs of decay. By visiting a warm and friendly family dental practice from a very early age, a hope is that your child will grow up comfortable with the dentist and will not develop anxiety over the process in the future.

After your child’s first visit, most dentists recommend the usual schedule of routine check-ups and dental cleanings every six months. During these visits your dentist can monitor the progress of your child’s dental development, keep teeth clean and strong with cleanings and polishing, and guard against tooth decay with treatments like sealants. Through these frequent visits, your dentist can also help your child learn good dental hygiene practices that will be of benefit for the rest of his or her life.

Contact Your Family Dentist for More Information Today

Dr. Christy Savas’ family dentistry practice is dedicated to providing a wide range of quality preventative and restorative dental services, providing you and your family with a lifetime of healthy smiles. Contact the office of Dr. Savas to schedule a routine appointment today.