Is going to the dentist twice a year enough? 

Around 50 years ago (give or take), Americans did not take the best care of their teeth. There were no guidelines on how often one should see a dentist. In fact, at that time, many dentists were concerned about fixing dental problems instead of preventing them. Dental and healthcare organizations tried to set standards for preventive dental care. Not having any guidelines or much evidence to go by, they made the best guess or judgment call they could at the time. People should see the dentist twice a year for check-ups and cleanings. Over time this became a rule of thumb. And for many people seeing a dentist twice a year still is acceptable. However, there are many reasons why you may need to see a dentist more often than just the twice-a-year suggested average. People with a high risk of dental disease may need to visit the dentist three to four times a year or more, as indicated by their dentist. This high-risk group of people could include:

1. Smokers
2. Diabetics
3. People that currently have gum disease or gingivitis
4. People that have a weak immune response to bacterial infection
5. Seniors may need to see the dentist more often due to illness and or medications they are taking
6. People who tend to get cavities and plaque build up quickly.
7. People who had inferior dental care in the past may also need to see the dentist more often.

By taking good care of your teeth at home, you may still be in the group that only has to see the dentist twice a year. However, talk to your dentist, and see what is best for you and your dental care. Everyone is different and has different dental needs. The rule of seeing a dentist twice a year is still just a good guild line to go by, but it is not written in stone.