How Often Should You Really Visit the Dentist? What You Need to Know

We get this question all the time—“Do I really need to go to the dentist every six months?” The short answer? Yes—and in many cases, that visit could save your teeth (and your wallet) in the long run.

At Noble Dentistry, we believe that preventive care is the key to long-term oral health. Whether it’s been a few months or a few years since your last visit, here’s what you should know about how often to see the dentist—and why it matters.

The Standard Recommendation: Twice a Year

For most people, visiting the dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam is the gold standard. These biannual visits allow us to:

• Remove plaque and tartar that brushing can’t reach
  
• Catch issues like cavities or gum disease early
  
• Track changes in your bite, enamel, or soft tissues
  
• Keep your teeth looking and feeling their best
  

Regular visits also allow us to monitor things you might not notice—like early signs of wear from grinding, gum inflammation, or a filling that’s starting to fail.

Looking to schedule your next visit? Learn more about our Teeth Cleanings and Preventive Dentistry services.

Some People May Need to Visit More Often

Certain health conditions or risk factors may require more frequent dental visits—every 3–4 months in some cases. You may need extra care if you:

• Are prone to gum disease or have a history of periodontitis
  
• Have a lot of dental work that needs monitoring
  
• Are undergoing orthodontic treatment like Invisalign
  
• Have diabetes or another condition that affects your oral health
  
• Are pregnant, which can increase risk of gingivitis
  
• Smoke or use tobacco
  

We’ll always customize your visit schedule based on your unique needs.

What Happens If You Skip a Visit?

Life gets busy—but skipping your dental checkups may allow small issues to become big ones. A small cavity can turn into a root canal. A bit of plaque buildup can become gum disease. And untreated gum disease? It’s the leading cause of adult tooth loss.

The good news: cleanings and exams are simple, quick, and often 100% covered by insurance. In fact, we offer $0 cleanings for insured patients—so there’s no reason to wait.

Explore your Financial Options or call our front desk with any questions about your coverage.

Haven’t Been in a While? We’re Just Glad You’re Here.

Whether it’s been 6 months or 6 years, there’s no judgment at Noble Dentistry. We’re here to help you get back on track and feel good about your smile again. We’ll meet you where you are and guide you forward with care, clarity, and kindness.