Who Needs to See a Dentist More Often Than Usual?

Most people should see their dentist every year, if not twice per year, for a thorough exam including x-rays and a good cleaning. A dentist can check for signs of gum disease and oral cancer during these appointments, and note if your oral hygiene needs improvement. 

While most people can see their dentist this often and keep their teeth and mouth in good health, it's good to note that some people should see their dentist more often. This is because they may be at a higher risk for certain conditions developing in the mouth and should have an exam done on a more regular basis than others. While only a dentist can tell you how often you should come in for an appointment, note those who most commonly need to see their dentist more regularly throughout the year.

1. Smokers

Most people equate cigarette smoking with lung cancer, but it can also lead to cancer of the mouth, throat, and tongue as well. Every time a person inhales cigarette smoke they are passing those carcinogens and the damaging smoke itself over their mouth and teeth, and in turn, they may develop oral cancer more readily than nonsmokers. If you smoke, your dentist has probably already advised you to visit their office for a checkup more often than others, and it's good if you follow this advice closely.

2. People with weakened immune responses

Your immune system can be weakened for a variety of reasons, from genetics to health concerns and diseases, to treatments you're receiving such as radiation or chemotherapy. No matter the reason, if you have a weakened immune response you need to see the dentist more often than most people since you may be at an increased risk for gum disease, oral infections, tooth decay, and the like. 

3. People who tend to get cavities more often than others

You may be more prone to get cavities because you eat foods that erode the enamel of your teeth, or your teeth may be naturally thin and weak. You may also neglect your oral hygiene and simply refuse to change your habits. Whatever your reason, you may need to see your dentist more than twice per year so that he or she can note any cavities that are forming and in turn, fill them in quickly. Unchecked cavities can lead to teeth cracking and tooth loss, or the need for a root canal, which is a type of surgery on the soft tissue under the tooth enamel. To avoid these things, see your dentist, such as someone from Woodvale Dental Surgery, as often as he or she recommends.

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