Skipping the Dentist? Here’s How Often You Should Be Going Instead

It’s easy to put off a dental appointment. Maybe your schedule is full, or your teeth feel fine, or you’re a little nervous about the visit itself. But skipping the dentist can do more harm than you think. Even without pain or visible problems, your mouth could be developing issues you can’t see or feel yet.

So how often should you actually be going? Most people are surprised to learn that dental visits are not just about cleaning they’re a critical part of long-term oral health and even your overall wellness.

Experts often get asked how often should you go to the dentist, and the answer depends on a few key factors. In this guide, we’ll explain what the standard recommendation is, when to go more often, and what happens if you delay checkups for too long.

The Basic Rule: Twice a Year for Most People

The general recommendation for dental visits is every six months. That means seeing your dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and a full exam. These visits allow your dental team to:

• Remove plaque and tartar

• Check for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other problems

• Take X-rays when needed

• Screen for oral cancer

• Give tips for improving at-home care

These appointments are preventive. They help stop small problems before they turn into serious ones and they often cost far less than treating those bigger issues later.

When You Might Need to Go More Often

While two visits per year is the average, some people need to go more frequently, especially if they are at higher risk for dental issues. You may benefit from visits every three to four months if you:

• Have a history of gum disease

• Get frequent cavities

• Use tobacco or vape

• Have diabetes or a weakened immune system

• Are pregnant or going through hormonal changes

• Wear braces, clear aligners, or dentures

• Experience dry mouth from medications

Your dentist can help create a custom visit schedule based on your health, habits, and oral history.

What Happens at a Routine Checkup?

A standard dental visit is designed to be thorough and preventive. Most appointments include:

1. Cleaning:
A dental hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from your teeth.

2. Exam:
The dentist checks your teeth, gums, and jaw for any signs of decay, disease, or damage.

3. X-rays (as needed):
These help detect issues that are hidden below the surface, like bone loss or cavities between teeth.

4. Oral Cancer Screening:
Your dentist will examine the soft tissues of your mouth, checking for any signs of abnormal patches or sores.

5. Personalized Advice:
You’ll receive tips and suggestions for improving your brushing, flossing, and daily care routine.

These visits typically take under an hour and play a major role in keeping your smile healthy.

The Risks of Skipping Dental Visits

Skipping appointments might feel like no big deal at first, especially if you don’t notice any problems. But over time, missed visits can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Buildup of plaque and tartar

• Cavities that grow and require more complex treatments

• Gum inflammation turning into full-blown periodontal disease

• Tooth loss

• Oral infections

• Missed early warning signs of oral cancer or jaw issues

What starts as a small issue could become painful, time-consuming, and expensive to fix if ignored for too long.

Signs That You Should Book a Visit Right Away

Even if you’re not due for a routine checkup, there are some warning signs that mean you should see your dentist as soon as possible:

• Persistent tooth pain

• Sensitivity to hot or cold

• Swollen, bleeding, or receding gums

• Loose or shifting teeth

• Bad breath that won’t go away

• White or red patches inside your mouth

• Mouth sores that last more than two weeks

These symptoms may point to serious conditions that need immediate attention.

Dental Visits at Different Stages of Life

Your dental needs change as you age. Here’s what to know by age group:

• Children: First dental visit by age one, then every six months. Early checkups guide proper development and help prevent early cavities.

• Teens: Regular visits are crucial during orthodontic treatment or when wisdom teeth begin to emerge.

• Adults: Biannual cleanings and exams catch gum disease and decay before they progress.

• Seniors: Older adults may need more visits to manage dry mouth, medication effects, and dental work like crowns or dentures.

Consistency is important at every age, even if your mouth feels fine.

No Insurance? You Still Have Options

Many people skip dental visits because of cost, especially if they don’t have insurance. But dental offices today often offer affordable solutions such as:

• In-house membership plans that include cleanings and exams

• Payment plans for unexpected treatments

• Discounted preventive care bundles

• Financing options with little to no interest

Preventive visits are usually far more affordable than emergency care, extractions, or restorative treatments down the road.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been skipping the dentist, now is the time to get back on track. The average person should see the dentist every six months, but your unique health may call for a different plan. The important thing is to stop waiting for a problem and start focusing on prevention.

Ask your dentist what visit schedule is best for you and follow through with routine care. It’s one of the simplest ways to keep your teeth healthy, your costs low, and your smile looking its best for years to come.