“Every six months” is the answer most people have heard. It’s a sensible starting point, but the right interval for you depends on your mouth, your health and your habits. Some people need to come in more often; a few can safely come in less. This guide explains how dentists decide, and what regular visits actually do for you.
Why six months is a common recommendation
Plaque that isn’t removed hardens into tartar within days, and tartar can only be removed professionally. Over months it builds up along the gum line, especially behind the lower front teeth and on the outside of the upper back teeth. Six months is usually short enough to remove it before it causes significant gum inflammation, and to catch small cavities before they become large ones.
Many health fund extras policies also cover two preventive visits a year, so a six-monthly routine often costs little or nothing out of pocket with a preferred provider.
Who may need to come in more often
Your dentist may recommend visits every three or four months if you:
- Have had gum disease (periodontitis). Bacteria repopulate deep pockets within about three months, so more frequent maintenance keeps it stable.
- Get new cavities regularly. A high-risk mouth benefits from closer monitoring, extra fluoride and diet advice.
- Have diabetes, particularly if blood sugar control is difficult.
- Smoke or vape, which increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
- Are pregnant, as hormonal changes make gums more reactive.
- Have a dry mouth from medications, radiotherapy or medical conditions.
- Wear braces or have lots of crowns, bridges or implants that are harder to clean around.
- Have difficulty brushing because of arthritis, disability or age.
Who may be able to come in less often
Adults with no history of gum disease, no recent decay, good home care and stable general health are sometimes advised that a check-up every 12 months is enough, with x-rays every one to two years. Your dentist will base this on your history, not a fixed rule, and it can change if your health or habits change.
What actually happens at a check-up and clean
- Medical history update: new medications and conditions can affect your mouth.
- Examination of every tooth, existing fillings and crowns, your gums, bite, jaw joints and soft tissues, including a routine check for signs of oral cancer.
- X-rays when due, to see between teeth and below the gum line.
- Scale and clean to remove tartar and plaque, followed by a polish.
- Fluoride to strengthen enamel.
- Personal advice on the areas you’re missing and the tools that suit your mouth.
Allow 45 to 60 minutes for a new patient visit, and a little less for regular check-ups. See preventive dentistry for more.
What regular visits prevent
Small problems becoming big ones
A small cavity found on a routine x-ray can usually be fixed with a simple filling. Left until it hurts, the same cavity may need a root canal and a crown. Regular visits are the cheapest way to look after your teeth over a lifetime.
Gum disease
Gum disease is often painless until it’s advanced. Measuring your gums at each visit catches it early, when it’s easier to control.
Cracked teeth and worn enamel
Grinding, clenching and acidic drinks gradually wear teeth down. Spotting the signs early means we can protect your teeth with a splint or advice before significant damage occurs.
Oral cancer
Dentists look at the tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth and throat at every examination. Most findings are harmless, but early detection of anything concerning makes a big difference.
Signs you shouldn’t wait for your next check-up
- Toothache, or pain when biting
- Sensitivity that lasts more than a couple of weeks
- Bleeding, swollen or receding gums
- A broken tooth, filling or crown
- A lump, ulcer or patch in the mouth that hasn’t healed in two weeks
- Swelling in the face or gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
For urgent problems, we keep same-day emergency appointments available six days a week.
How often should children see the dentist?
Children usually benefit from a check-up every six months. Their teeth and jaws change quickly, decay can progress faster in baby teeth, and regular visits help children feel comfortable at the dentist. See children’s dentistry.
How often do you need x-rays?
It depends on your risk. Many adults need bitewing x-rays every one to two years; people with frequent decay may need them yearly; children at low risk less often. We only take x-rays when they’re likely to change what we do.
Making it easy to keep up
- Book your next visit before you leave each appointment.
- Choose a time that suits you: we’re open Saturdays 8:30am–4pm as well as weekdays 9am–6pm.
- Book the family together with back-to-back appointments.
- Use your health fund benefits before they reset.
Find out more about check-ups and teeth cleaning in Hornsby.
FAQs
I haven’t been to a dentist in years. Where do I start?
Book a new patient check-up and clean. We’ll assess everything, explain what we find and prioritise anything that needs attention. See our new patient offer: $219, or No Gap with eligible health fund extras.
My teeth feel fine. Do I still need a check-up?
Yes. Many problems, including decay between teeth and gum disease, don’t hurt until they’re advanced.
Can a hygienist do my clean?
Yes, oral health therapists and hygienists are trained to clean teeth and give preventive advice, with a dentist overseeing your care.
Book a visit at Hornsby Dental
Hornsby Dental is at Suite 21, 14 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby, about three minutes’ walk from Hornsby Station, with free street parking nearby. We’re open Monday to Friday 9am–6pm and Saturday 8:30am–4pm. Book online or call (02) 8090 1100.
This article is general information only. It isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist about your own mouth and health.