One of the most common questions we hear at Lara Village Dental is, “How often should I see the dentist?” It’s a great question, and the answer can vary depending on your oral health. But as a general rule, most people should visit the dentist every six months for check-ups and cleaning.
As your local Lara dentist, we’re here to help you understand why regular visits are important and what happens during these appointments.
Why Six Monthly Dental Visits Are Recommended
Dental check-ups every six months are a simple way to protect your teeth and catch problems early before they become bigger, more expensive issues. Here’s why it matters:
- Plaque builds up over time, even with good brushing and flossing.
- Tooth decay and gum disease can go unnoticed in early stages.
- Professional cleans remove hardened tartar that you can’t get rid of at home.
- Regular monitoring helps spot changes or problems quickly.
At each appointment, we’ll check your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of concern and give you a thorough clean to remove plaque and tartar.
If you have excellent oral health, your dentist may stretch your visits to once a year. But for most people, six-monthly check-ups are the safest bet.
When You Might Need to Visit More Often
Some patients need to come in more regularly. This includes people who:
- Have a history of gum disease
- Get frequent cavities
- Are undergoing orthodontic treatment (like Invisalign)
- Heave health conditions that affect oral health (like diabetes)
- Are pregnant, as hormonal changes can affect gum health
- Smoke or use tobacco
Your dentist will let you know what’s right for you based on your individual needs.
What Happens at a Dental Check-Up?
If it’s been a while since your last visit, here’s what you can expect during a standard check-up at Lara Village Dental:
- Oral Examination: We check your teeth, gums, jaw and soft tissues for any signs of decay, gum disease, wear or abnormalities.
- Scale and Clean: A professional clean removes built-up tartar (hardened plaque) that you can’t remove at home.
- Fluoride Treatment: This helps to strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities.
- X-rays (if needed): X-rays are sometimes taken to detect issues that aren’t visible to the eye, like decay between teeth or under old fillings.
- Personalised Advice: We’ll talk through your oral hygiene habits, diet and any concerns you may have. It’s also a good time to ask questions!
Our goal is to make every visit as relaxed and informative as possible. We want you to feel confident and comfortable every time you visit your dentist in Lara.
Can I Skip the Dentist if I’m Not in Pain?
Pain is often the last symptom to show up. Many dental issues, like decay or gum disease, can develop silently in the early stages. By the time it hurts, it’s usually more complex and costly to treat.
That’s why prevention is key. Regular visits to your Lara dentist help avoid problems before they start, saving you time, money and discomfort in the long run.
Haven’t Been to the Dentist in a While?
Don’t worry, we’re not here to judge. Life gets busy, and it’s easy to put off dental visits. Whether it’s been 6 months or 6 years, the team at Lara Village Dental is here to welcome you with friendly, judgement-free care.
We’ll get your oral health back on track and help you feel confident about your smile again.
Book Your Next Dental Check-Up at Lara Village Dental
Looking for a dentist in Lara who puts your comfort first? At Lara Village Dental, we provide gentle, thorough dental care for the whole family. Whether you’re due for a routine check-up or have a specific concern, we’re here to help.
Book your appointment today and keep your smile healthy, strong and confident.