Many people are unsure about the right frequency for dental visits. How often should you go to the dentist? Most adults should go every 6 months, but the ideal frequency depends on your personal risk factors. Regular checkups help detect problems early and reduce the risk of serious complications such as tooth infections, gum disease, and other preventable dental conditions.
This guide covers recommended dental visit schedules for all ages, from children to seniors, and explains how lifestyle habits, medical conditions, and oral health history can change your checkup routine.
Complete Schedule for Dental Visits
There is no universal schedule for dental visits, as the ideal frequency depends on your oral health, medical history, and risk factors. While many people go every 6 months, some may need more or fewer visits based on their condition. The table below summarizes common risk levels and recommended visit intervals:
| Risk Level | Typical Frequency | Who It Applies To |
| Low Risk | Every 6–12 months | Healthy adults with good oral hygiene, no major health issues |
| Moderate Risk | Every 6 months | Most children, adults, and seniors with average oral health |
| High Risk | Every 3–4 months | Smokers, people with diabetes, gum disease, or dry mouth |
| Very High Risk | Every 1–3 months | Patients with active gum disease, Invisalign/braces, or recent dental work |
Note: These are general guidelines. Your dentist will create a personalized recall schedule based on a proper risk assessment. How often should you go to the dentist? Always follow your dentist’s recommendation tailored to your specific needs.
Related Topic: Pediatric Dentist vs General Dentist for Kids: Which One Should Your Child See?
High-Risk Groups That Need More Frequent Visits
Certain individuals face a higher risk of dental problems and typically need more frequent dental checkups. These high-risk groups include:
- Smokers and tobacco users: significantly higher risk of gum disease and oral cancer. If you smoke, learn how this habit impacts your oral health in detail: Severe Impact of Smoking on Dental Health.
- People with diabetes: increased susceptibility to infections and slower healing.
- Patients with gum disease (periodontitis): need closer monitoring to prevent progression.
- Pregnant women: hormonal changes can affect gum health.
- Children: higher risk of cavities due to developing oral hygiene habits and changing teeth, often requiring closer preventive monitoring.
- Individuals with dry mouth (xerostomia): reduced natural protection against decay.
- Patients with braces or Invisalign: higher risk of plaque buildup and cavities.
- Seniors (older adults): due to aging-related weakening of oral health, they are more prone to dental diseases, especially those with existing medical conditions who often require more frequent dental visits.
If you belong to any of these groups, consult your dentist for a personalized schedule.
Note: If the patient is a child or falls into a pediatric risk group, it is recommended to consult a pediatric dentist for more specialized care and age-appropriate preventive treatment.
You may find useful: Common Dental Problems Invisalign Can Fix
Take Control of Your Dental Health Today
A personalized risk assessment is the best way to create a schedule that fits your unique needs. At Elmwood Park Dental, our experienced team offers thorough checkups, professional cleanings, and tailored preventive care in a comfortable downtown Toronto setting.
Book your next dental visit and get clear, expert guidance for a healthier smile.
What the Canadian Dental Association Recommends
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) does not recommend a one-size-fits-all schedule. Instead, the CDA advises that the recall interval and recall exam frequency should be determined by an individual risk assessment. This assessment considers factors such as dental caries risk, periodontal (gum) health, and overall medical condition.
This personalized approach means higher-risk patients may need more frequent visits, while lower-risk patients may safely go less often. The goal is tailored, effective care rather than a fixed rule for everyone.
Factors That Change How Often You Go
Several health and lifestyle factors can increase your risk and require more frequent dental visits. How often should you go to the dentist if you have any of these risk factors? Here’s how each one typically affects your schedule:
- Gum disease: Existing periodontitis often needs monitoring every 3 months to prevent worsening and tooth loss.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar increases infection risk and slows healing, usually requiring visits every 3–4 months.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can worsen gum inflammation, so more frequent checkups are often recommended.
- Smoking / Tobacco use: Significantly raises the risk of gum disease and oral cancer, commonly needing visits every 3 months.
- Dry mouth (xerostomia): Reduces saliva protection against decay, often calling for checkups every 3–4 months.
- Orthodontics / Braces / Invisalign: Makes cleaning harder and raises plaque buildup, typically requiring visits every 1–3 months.
- Age (older adults): Increasing age can lead to weaker teeth and gums, reduced saliva flow, and a higher likelihood of existing dental conditions, often requiring more frequent preventive visits.
Your dentist will adjust the exact frequency based on your specific situation.
Read more: Why Do I Experience Gums Bleeding When Water Flossing?
What Canadians Risk by Skipping Checkups
According to Statistics Canada, more than one-third of Canadians (approximately 35%) did not visit a dental professional in a full year (12 months) in 2022. Skipping regular checkups can lead to untreated tooth decay, tooth abscess, advanced gum disease, and tooth loss. These issues are often more difficult and costly to treat when detected late.
This is especially important for children, whose developing teeth benefit greatly from consistent preventive care . For more details, read our guide: How Often Should Kids Go to the Dentist?
Book a Checkup at Elmwood Park Dental
Still concerned about “How often should you go to the dentist?” We’ll help determine the ideal checkup schedule based on your individual needs.
At Elmwood Park Dental, our experienced team provides compassionate, high-quality dental care in the heart of Toronto. Located at 29 Elm St, downtown Toronto, our clinic is led by Dr. Andre Hughes, Dr. Sener, and Dr. Nilava Ghatak. We are proud RCDSO and ODA members committed to excellence in patient care.
We accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) through Sun Life, offer direct billing, and have a friendly multilingual team fluent in 9 languages to make every visit comfortable.
Whether you need a routine oral examination or checkup, cleaning, or personalized treatment plan, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy smile for life. Book a Checkup today at (647) 363-7764.
FAQ
1. What happens if you don’t go to the dentist for years?
Without regular visits, small problems can turn into serious issues like advanced tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. Early detection is much easier and less expensive.
2. Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan cover checkups?
Yes, the CDCP covers routine dental checkups and preventive care for eligible low-income individuals. Coverage is provided through Sun Life. Confirm your eligibility directly with the plan.
3. How often should children go to the dentist?
Children should visit the dentist every 6 months, starting from their first tooth or by their first birthday. Regular visits help prevent cavities and monitor development.
4. Does dental insurance cover regular checkups in Canada?
Most dental insurance plans in Canada cover preventive checkups and cleanings, often at 80-100%. Coverage varies by plan. Check your policy details.
5. What should I expect during a routine dental visit?
A routine visit includes a dental exam, professional cleaning, necessary X-rays, and a discussion of your oral health. It usually takes 30–60 minutes.
What’s your experience with dental visits? Do you go every 6 months, or has your dentist recommended a different schedule? Share your thoughts in the comments below
