According to the Canadian Dental Association, how often you go for a dental exam depends on your personal oral health needs. The goal is to catch small problems early. For many people, this means a checkup every six months. Your dentist may suggest that you visit more or less often depending on conditions such as how well you care for your teeth and gums, problems you have that need to be checked or treated, and how fast tartar builds up on your teeth.

 

Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and follow my dentist’s instructions on how to brush properly?
• Do I eat a well-balanced diet, including food from all four food groups?
• Do I have a history of cavities or gum disease?
• Do I limit sweets and sticky foods?
• Is my overall health good?
• Do I floss every day?
• Do I smoke?

The answers are all factors that affect your oral health. They will help you and your dentist decide how often you need to visit for checkups.

 

You should not determine your need for dental care on what your dental plan covers.