How often should you really see a dentist?
The six month rule is a guideline, not a law. What actually determines your ideal checkup interval.
The six month rule
Most people grow up hearing that a dental checkup belongs in the calendar every six months. The honest answer from clinical research is more nuanced: the right interval depends on your individual risk of decay and gum disease.
Who needs more frequent visits
Patients with active gum disease, a history of frequent cavities, diabetes, or dry mouth often benefit from visits every three to four months.
Who can stretch the interval
Healthy adults with excellent home care and no history of decay may do fine with a checkup every nine to twelve months, if their dentist agrees.
The bottom line
Ask your dentist to recommend an interval based on your risk, not the poster on the wall.
Sources
- Recall intervals for oral health in primary care patients - Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews