This Article will address
- Why regular dental visits are essential for your health
- How often to visit the dentist in general
- Age-specific guidelines for dental visits from infancy through senior years
- Risks of waiting too long between appointments
- What happens if you never see a dentist
- Other factors that influence how often you should schedule a visit
At Kelly Family Dentistry, we believe that a healthy smile begins with consistent care at every stage of life. For more than four decades, our Franklin, TN practice has cared for generations of families, helping patients prevent problems before they become painful or costly. One of the most common questions we hear is: How often should you go to the dentist at every age? The answer depends on your age, health, and unique needs, but understanding the right schedule can make a lasting difference for your smile.
Why Regular Dental Visits Are Important
Regular dental visits are about more than just clean teeth. At each appointment, our team provides:
- Early detection of problems such as cavities and gum disease
- Professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar brushing cannot reach
- Oral cancer screenings to ensure small issues are caught before they become serious
- Monitoring of past dental work to make sure restorations remain strong
- Preventive education to keep your family’s smiles healthy between visits
Franklin families rely on Kelly Family Dentistry because consistent visits mean fewer emergencies and better overall oral health.
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
Most people should visit the dentist twice a year, or every six months, for a cleaning and oral exam. This schedule allows us to monitor your oral health closely and prevent small issues from turning into larger ones.
That said, some patients may need to come more often. Your age, medical history, lifestyle habits, and current oral health all play a role. For example, smokers, people with gum disease, or those with diabetes may need to see us more frequently.
Guidelines from the American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommend routine visits tailored to individual risk levels.
Dental Visit Frequency by Age
Infants and Toddlers
Your child’s first dental visit should happen by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. After that, we recommend appointments every 6–12 months to watch for early signs of cavities and help your child build positive dental habits.
Children (Ages 2–12)
Children should see the dentist twice a year for cleanings and exams. Kids are more prone to cavities, and regular visits allow us to monitor growth, alignment, and oral hygiene. Additional appointments may be needed if cavities develop or orthodontic concerns arise.
Teenagers (Ages 13–19)
Teens should also visit the dentist every six months. This age group often faces unique challenges, including braces, wisdom teeth, and diet changes. Regular visits ensure these issues are addressed early.
Adults (Ages 20–64)
For adults, two visits per year remain the standard. However, factors like pregnancy, tobacco use, diabetes, or gum disease can increase the need for more frequent appointments.
Seniors (65+)
Seniors should continue to see the dentist at least twice a year. Older adults are at higher risk for dry mouth, gum recession, and complications with dental restorations or dentures. More frequent visits may be needed depending on overall health.
How Long Is Too Long Without Going to the Dentist?
Going longer than 12 months without seeing a dentist significantly increases your risk for cavities, gum disease, and oral infections. Problems that might have been simple to treat can quickly become complex and expensive. At Kelly Family Dentistry, we encourage Franklin patients to schedule an appointment before a full year passes.
What Happens If You Never Go to the Dentist?
Skipping dental visits altogether can have serious consequences, including:
- Advanced gum disease that can lead to tooth loss
- Cavities that progress into painful infections
- Oral cancer that goes undetected
- Higher treatment costs for advanced conditions
Preventive care is always more affordable and comfortable than emergency treatment. Our team encourages patients to stay ahead of problems through routine visits.
Other Factors That Influence Visit Frequency
Some situations call for more frequent checkups, including:
- High-risk groups such as smokers, diabetics, and pregnant women
- Patients with dental devices like implants, braces, or dentures
- Warning signs such as bleeding gums, ongoing sensitivity, or tooth pain
If you fall into one of these categories, we may recommend seeing you every three to four months instead of twice a year.
Keeping Your Smile Healthy at Every Age
Routine dental care is one of the simplest ways to protect your smile for life. By scheduling visits at the right frequency for your age and health, you can avoid costly treatments, maintain confidence in your smile, and enjoy better overall well-being.
At Kelly Family Dentistry in Franklin, TN, we are proud to care for every generation of your family. Schedule your next cleaning with us today and take the next step toward keeping your smile healthy at every age.
Sources
- American Dental Association. “Oral Health and Well-Being in the United States
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Oral Health Basics.”
Dr. Allyson Kelly, DDS, is a dedicated General Dentist at Kelly Family Dentistry in Franklin, TN. A graduate of Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, she served five years as a Captain in the U.S. Army, where she completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency at Fort Carson. With advanced training in dental implants, oral surgery, and endodontics, Dr. Kelly combines clinical expertise with a compassionate approach to care. Outside the office, she enjoys equestrian sports, coaching her daughter’s soccer team, running half marathons with her husband, and giving back through school and community involvement.