Oral hygiene is important to your health but goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. Routine dental exams are essential for more than just cleanings — they can screen for and prevent serious diseases, such as gum disease, tartar buildup, and oral cancer. Undetected dental problems can escalate if not checked regularly, quickly becoming serious health concerns.
Take control of your oral health with routine dental exams in Beddington Heights in Calgary.
How Often Should I See My Dentist?
How often you get dental exams can change depending on several factors, including your current oral health, diet and lifestyle, overall health factors, and even genetics. That said, under normal circumstances, you should see your dentist every 6 months for a routine cleaning and checkup. People with a higher risk of oral diseases may need to be seen more often.
Dental insurance coverage will also play a role in how often you visit. Talk to your insurance provider or discuss your eligibility for the Canadian Dental Care Plan for assistance in paying for dental care.
It’s essential to remember: even if your mouth feels healthy, you never know what’s going on under the surface. Routine checkups and X-rays will give you and your dentist a complete picture of your oral health.
Kids
The Dentists at Beddington Heights in Calgary recommend that children receive their first dental exam when their first baby tooth comes in, or by their first birthday. As the child ages, your dentist will advise you on how often to visit, but it’s typically recommended that children see their dentist twice a year.
Adults
Adults should visit the dentist at least once a year for routine dental exams. However, that frequency will change depending on your oral health and your risk for gum disease or cavities.
Are You High Risk?
When evaluating your risk for oral disease, your dentist will consider a variety of health factors:
- Personal health
- Lifestyle
- Genetic factors
- Your diet — diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates increase the risk of oral disease
- Overall oral habits and hygiene
- Exposure to fluoride in water
- Smoking or use of other tobacco products
- Heavy alcohol or recreational drug use
- Medical conditions including diabetes, Sjogren’s Syndrome, HIV/AIDS, or head and neck cancers
High-Risk Groups
High-risk individuals who may need to visit the dentist more frequently, include:
- Smokers
- Pregnant women
- Patients with current gum disease
- People with a weak immune response to bacterial infection
- Those who are prone to cavities or plaque buildup
- Dry mouth sufferers
- Older adults
Other Factors
Changes to Dental Health
Any significant changes in your oral health should be assessed by your dentist, including:
- Chipped or damaged tooth
- Shifting teeth
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Tooth pain or sensitivity
Upkeep
If you’ve had dental treatments like fillings, crowns, or oral surgery, a follow-up appointment may be needed. The Dentists at Beddington Heights in Calgary will perform a quick dental exam to ensure you’re healing properly. More frequent visits may be necessary for those with gum disease to monitor and manage your oral health effectively.
Routine Dental Exams in Beddington Heights, Calgary
Regular dental exams are essential to your health. The Dentists at Beddington Heights are happy to help you reach and maintain your oral health goals through routine dental exams, and additional services.
For dental care you can count on, contact the Dentists at Beddington Heights in Calgary for your dental exams, cleanings, and fillings.