Regular dental check-ups
Having regular dental check-ups allows your dental practitioner to assess your teeth, gums and oral cavity to check for any problems. Regular checks are a key step in helping you keep your mouth healthy and catching any problems early when they are easier to treat.
How often should I get a dental check-up?
Your dental practitioner will recommend a time frame that is appropriate for you based on the state of your oral health. For example, people with very low risk of dental problems may not need to be seen by a dental practitioner as often as a person with complex dental problems. However, it's recommended the time between check-ups is no longer than 2 years.
What to expect
During your check-up, your dentist will usually:
- examine your teeth, gums and mouth and follow up on any issues that you may have
- check your head and neck for signs of oral cancers
- review your general health and update your medical history if things have changed since your last check-up
- provide individual advice on your oral hygiene habits and diet, and go through correct brushing and flossing techniques with you
- counsel you on smoking or alcohol use if relevant to you.
Dental anxiety
Feeling anxiety over going to the dentist is common and can affect people of any age. There are ways it can be managed, and it's important to let the dentist know if you experience any level of anxiety. Read more about managing dental anxiety.