When children are small, parents sometimes have to take them kicking and screaming to the dentist office. It has never been completely understood what was so frightening about going to see the dentist. Many people stopped going to the dentist once they were old enough to make that decision themselves. Yearly checkups with the dentist (explore options at our office) are very important to ensure that you maintain all of your teeth. Disease can happen in the gums that you will not be aware of until it is too late to save your own teeth. Everyone wants to know that they have a healthy mouth. See more about general dentistry.
Many young adults go to their dentist at least once per year unless there is a dental problem, and more visits are needed. The teeth should be deep cleaned every year. On average, once a year is normal for people under age 40. Once over 40, it may become necessary for people to see their dentist twice a year for cleaning. Slightly older people do not brush as long, or as thoroughly as younger people, so more food particles are getting hidden between the teeth and gums. If left to remain there, it could cause serious issues within the mouth. Older adults, especially those who have dentures, or implants, definitely need to visit the dentist more than once a year. Dentures can slip and cause gum irritation, and implants need to be checked periodically to ensure that they are still affixed properly.
Even if your teeth are in perfect condition, older adults still need to see the dentist more often than a younger person. People with chronic illnesses should visit the dentist often because some illnesses will affect the teeth and gums. Many people are not aware of this fact, so as a general rule, treat your mouth as if it were your eyes or other parts of the body that needs regular checks. With older adults who are on Medicare, most plans have dental coverage that will pay for two dental exams per year for the beneficiary. This is one confirmation that seeing the dentist more than once a year is the accepted practice.
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