You’ve probably heard it before: “Visit the dentist every six months.” But is that true for everyone? The short answer is—it depends. Your age, oral health, and personal risk factors all play a role in how often you should see the dentist.
At The Landing Dentistry, we believe preventive dental care should be personalized. Here’s a simple breakdown of recommended dental visit frequency by age, and why regular checkups matter at every stage of life.
Infants & Toddlers (0–2 Years)
How often:
- First dental visit by age one or when the first tooth appears
- Follow-up visits every 6–12 months
Why it matters:
Early visits help your child become comfortable at the dentist and allow us to monitor tooth development, check for early signs of decay, and provide guidance on brushing, feeding habits, and pacifier use. These visits set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Children (3–12 Years)
How often:
- Every 6 months (or as recommended)
Why it matters:
This is a critical time for preventing cavities and monitoring how adult teeth are coming in. Regular visits allow us to provide cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and early orthodontic evaluations when needed.
Teens (13–18 Years)
How often:
- Every 6 months
- More frequently, if wearing braces or clear aligners
Why it matters:
Teens face higher risks of cavities due to diet changes, sports injuries, and orthodontic appliances. Routine checkups help protect teeth during alignment treatment and ensure proper oral hygiene habits are maintained.
Adults (19–64 Years)
How often:
- Every 6 months for most adults
- Every 3–4 months, if you have gum disease or higher risk factors
Why it matters:
Adult dental visits focus on preventing cavities, gum disease, and catching issues like cracks, wear, or infections early. Lifestyle factors such as stress, smoking, medical conditions, and medications can all affect oral health, making regular checkups essential.
Seniors (65+ Years)
How often:
- Every 6 months (or more often if recommended)
Why it matters:
As we age, we may experience dry mouth, gum recession, tooth wear, or tooth loss. Regular visits help maintain restorations like crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures while monitoring for oral cancer and gum disease.
When You May Need More Frequent Visits
You may need to see the dentist more often if you:
- Have gum disease
- Are prone to cavities
- Wear braces or aligners
- Have diabetes or certain medical conditions
- Experience chronic dry mouth
- Smoke or use tobacco
Our team will recommend a visit schedule tailored specifically to your needs.
Personalized Care at The Landing Dentistry
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to dental care. At The Landing Dentistry, we take the time to understand your oral health and create a schedule that works best for you and your family.
Keep your smile healthy at every age. Here is a list of all our dental services.
