Regular checkups at the dentist are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. But how often should you get them? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including your age, your oral health, and your risk factors. At Houlik Family Dentistry, Dr. Joseph Houlik and Dr. Lily A. Wakim, your Wichita dentist, recommend that patients of all ages get routine checkups at least twice a year—once every six months. This frequency is recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA) and is the best way to ensure optimal oral health.
Routine Dental Checkups
During your routine dental checkup, Dr. Houlik or Dr. Wakim will examine your teeth and gums for signs of decay or other problems. They will also take X-rays of your teeth and jaw, which will help them identify any potential issues, such as cavities or gum disease. After the exam, they may also clean and polish your teeth. They can also check the alignment of your bite, discuss any changes you may need to make to your oral hygiene routine, and provide recommendations for future treatments.
Children
For children, routine checkups should begin as soon as their first tooth erupts or around their first birthday. From there, you should schedule checkups every six months. During these visits, your dentist will check for cavities, gum disease, and other potential issues. They can also provide preventive treatments such as fluoride, sealants, and oral hygiene instruction.
Adults
Adults should also visit the dentist at least twice a year. During these visits, your dentist will check for cavities, gum disease, and other potential issues. In addition, they may recommend additional preventive treatments such as professional cleaning, fluoride treatments, sealants, or night guards.
Higher-Risk Patients
Individuals at higher risk for oral health issues may need to visit their dentist more often. Higher-risk patients include individuals with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS, those who smoke or use other tobacco products, and those with a family history of oral health issues. Sometimes, your dentist may recommend that you come in every three or four months.
Gum Disease
Getting regular dental checkups is an integral part of managing gum disease. Checkups allow the dentist to check for any signs of worsening gum disease and ensure effective treatments. Dr. Houlik or Dr. Wakim will also be able to provide advice on how to best take care of your teeth and gums at home. During a checkup, your dentist will clean your teeth, check for any signs of gum disease, and make sure that the treatment plan is working. If we find any signs of gum disease, we may recommend additional treatments, such as scaling and root planing. It is essential to attend all of your follow-up appointments with Houlik Family Dentistry so that we can monitor your progress and make sure that the treatments are working. You may need to come in more than twice a year for treatments.
Wichita Family Dentists
Dr. Houlik and Dr. Wakim are two leading dentists in Wichita, KS. They offer comprehensive dental care and have dedicated their practice to providing excellent service and patient care. Our Wichita dentist and our highly experienced and educated dentists provide a wide range of dental treatments, from fillings and crowns to root canals and implants. We also offer preventative care, such as regular checkups, cleanings, and fluoride treatments. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure you get the most effective and comfortable care possible. Our office staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and we strive to ensure that our patients feel comfortable and at ease while in our care. With Dr. Houlik and Dr. Wakim, you can be sure that you receive the highest quality dental care.
Regular checkups are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. If it has been more than six months since your last checkup, contact Dr. Joseph Houlik and Dr. Lily A. Wakim, your Wichita family dentist, to schedule an appointment. Our experienced team of dentists, hygienists, and assistants is dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
