When It comes down to health: most of us know what we have to do—literally and figuratively too. We eat our greens, we drink lots of water, and we exercise regularly. When was the last time you checked in at the dentist, though?

If you can't remember whether six months have gone by or six years, don't worry, you're not alone. A lot of Canadians put dental checkups off until there is pain, sensitivity, or something that has become obvious that cannot be left unattended. But here's a surprise: a regular visit to your dentist may do more than restore your smile—it might save your life.

Let's get to the actual answer to the question: How frequently should you see the dentist?

The Golden Six Months: Why Every Six Months?

You've likely already heard that you should visit your dentist every six months. It isn't an arbitrary figure, though. Dentists came up with this rule based on how fast plaque and tartar can form, how fast issues can progress, and the need for early diagnosis.

Consider these every-other-year checkups as tune-ups for your vehicle. You may not feel a thing going on under the hood, but your mechanic—and, in this instance, your dentist—can identify tiny problems before they turn into costly repairs.

But Here's the Surprise: It's Not One-Size-Fits

Although six months is a useful guideline, it is not a hard and fast rule by any means. In fact, your frequency of dental checkups should be based on your unique needs.

Some individuals who have impeccable oral hygiene and no dental history may require a visit once a year only. Others, particularly those with gum disease, diabetes, smoke, or a history of cavities, may require a visit every 3-4 months.

Ask yourself:

• Do you brush and floss daily?
• Do you consume a lot of sugary drinks or acidic drinks?
• Have you had dental problems in the past?
• Do you smoke or consume tobacco products?
• Are you pregnant?

Your responses can determine how frequently your dentist advises you to return. Personalized treatment is really what matters—what works for your neighbour may not work for you.

Dental Visits: More than Just a Clean Smile

What most people are unaware of is that a visit to the dentist is more than a gleaming pearlies session; it's a thorough checkup of your body that is far more extensive than your mouth.

During a routine visit, a dentist inspects:

• Cavities and tooth decay
• Gum disease,
• Oral cancer
• Jaw issues like TMJ
• Signs of systemic illness such as diabetes or even heart illness

Indeed, oral health has been termed the "window to your general health." Issues in your mouth can indicate more serious health issues, and your dentist might be the first to catch on.

The Price of Missing Dental Appointments

Let's be realistic—cost is one reason individuals avoid going to the dentist. But here's where things get ironic: avoiding trips to the dentist tends to cost more in the grand scheme of things.

Discovering a tiny cavity during a regular checkup? A routine filling should handle that problem easily. Waiting a year, though, might require a root canal or even an extraction.

Preventive dentistry is always more affordable, less invasive, and less stressful. Flexible payment programs, insurance coverage, or even community programs are now being offered by many dentists in Canada to make access to dental treatment attainable. If price is a factor, don't hesitate to discuss possibilities with your dentist in your area.

What Canadians Are Saying

According to a 2023 Canadian Dental Association survey, almost 60% of Canadians have been to a dentist recently, but that means a significant proportion of the country is missing out on necessary oral healthcare.

Interestingly, individuals who visited regularly reported not only healthier oral health—but also improved general well-being and increased self-confidence in appearance. It seems a healthy smile goes a long way!

Your Next Move: Make a Call

This is an excellent opportunity to get back in touch with your dentist if it has been a while since your last visit. Your smile and your health are worth it, even if you're only looking for a checkup for peace of mind or you could have a problem.

Don't know where to begin? Find a highly reviewed, modern, and friendly practice in your area. Many practices now have online scheduling and virtual consults to make it even easier to get started!

It All Comes Down to You, Not the Calendar

So, how often should you go to the dentist? Answer: as frequently as you need to maintain your smile—and your well-being—in top condition.

Regardless of whether that means every six months or a little more than that, the determining factor here is being proactive. Dentists' regular check-ins are an investment in you, something that benefits you more than you realize. Proceed—book that appointment. You and your smile will be thanking your future self later.