If you’ve ever wondered why Dentists recommend a dental check-up and dental hygiene every six months, you’re not alone. Lots of my patients ask me this and as a busy person, I know that it might feel tempting to skip an appointment if everything feels fine. But, regular dental check-ups are one of the most effective ways to maintain a healthy smile and avoid more serious (and costly) problems down the line.
At tooth, we believe in prevention rather than cure and as a Dentist for many years, I know exactly how beneficial that mantra is! Here’s just some reasons why those twice yearly visits are so important.
Early Detection = Prevention of Bigger Problems
Many dental issues (like cavities/decay, gum disease or even oral cancer), develop slowly and painlessly in their early stages. You might not notice anything wrong until the problem becomes serious. By seeing your Dentist regularly, potential issues can be spotted early, often before you even feel any symptoms. This is by far the best solution as early detection means early treatment, which is typically quicker, less invasive and more cost-effective.
Good Oral Hygiene
Even the best at-home brushing and flossing routines can miss certain areas of the mouth, it is no one’s fault but your mouth requires professional treatment and maintenance. During your dental hygiene visit in London, a qualified and experienced Dental Hygienist will professionally clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar that can build up over time, especially in hard-to-reach places that would be very hard to get to without the support of a Hygienist. They also use specialist equipment such as an ultrasonic scaler and an air-flow (we include this in our Standard Plus Hygiene treatment). This is equipment that cannot be purchased for home use, and this professional clean not only leaves your teeth feeling fresh but also helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Your Hygienist will also check that your brushing and flossing techniques are effective and offer tailored advice for improvement. Good oral hygiene isn’t just about your teeth, it supports your overall health too.
Save Money and Avoid Pain
When dental problems are left untreated, they tend to become more complex and more expensive to fix. A small cavity left unchecked can turn into a root canal or even an extraction. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Restorative treatments like crowns, implants, or bridges are far more costly than prevention through regular check-ups and dental hygiene cleans.
By staying on top of your oral health, you’re investing in prevention and that saves both money and pain in the long run. As Principal Dentist at tooth dental care in Waterloo, London, I have to deal with so many patients practically in tears as they have lost a tooth or need to have expensive restorative treatment – all of which could have been avoided with regular dental check-ups.
Holistic, Whole-Body Health
Oral health is closely linked to general health. Poor gum health has been connected to other serious conditions, and can also lead to bone loss. Regular dental visits help you keep your mouth healthy, which in turn supports your overall wellbeing.
At tooth, your dental visits are much more than just looking after your teeth, it’s a gateway to looking after yourself too and linked to a holistic healthy mouth, healthy gums, healthy body approach.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that a dental professional has checked your teeth and gums will give you peace of mind. With regular dental exams and dental hygiene appointments, you can feel confident that your mouth is in good health, and that any minor problems have been addressed early. This reassurance is especially important if you’ve had past dental issues or have dental anxiety. Remember, prevention and early treatment means less invasive (and therefore less worrying!) treatments.
There are so many reasons why planning a dental check-up and a dental hygiene appointment at least every six months is one of the smartest things you can do for your health, your wallet, and your peace of mind. Prevention is always better than cure, and at tooth, we’re here to help you keep your smile strong for life. Six monthly visits are the standard clinical guidelines for dental check-ups and dental hygiene visits, but like everything to do with the body or mouth, this can vary between patients. You should always follow the advice of your Dentist about the frequency of required dental exams and the advice of your Dental Hygienist about the frequency of required dental hygiene appointments.
Think you are overdue? Then book your dental check-up or book your dental hygiene today! It’s so easy to book at tooth, just click here, or click any of the buttons below. Our booking process is so easy and we often have same day or next day appointments available, so my advice to you – if you are reading this, and thinking it has been a long time since your last dental visit, then click the button and book whilst you’re still motivated. Life is busy and things get in the way, but all of us must always ensure we prioritise our health.
Dr. Anna x