Regular dental checkups are so important for maintaining good oral health and giving a bright, confident smile. Despite this, many people tend to avoid these essential visits!
In this article, we’ll explore the vital importance of dental checkups and the concept of preventive dentistry, and provide expert tips from Dr Lydia, a renowned cosmetic dentist here at Bespoke Smile. We aim to emphasise the importance of oral health and answer common questions, such as “When should an individual see a dentist?” and “How much is a dental checkup?”

What is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is all about maintaining good oral health to prevent dental problems from happening before they occur. This includes regular dental checkups, cleanings, and patient education on proper brushing and flossing techniques. By practising preventive dentistry, individuals can avoid common dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and enamel wear.
Key components of preventive dentistry
- Regular dental checkups: Visiting the dentist regularly helps identify and treat issues early.
- Oral hygiene practices: Proper brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash play a crucial role.
- Dietary choices: Limiting sugary and acidic foods can prevent tooth decay.
- Fluoride treatments: Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.
- Sealants: Dental sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent cavities.
How often should you go to the dentist?
How often you need to visit the dentist will vary based on individual needs, but a general guideline is to see a dentist at least twice a year, once every six months. Regular checkups help early detection of potential problems and allow a dentist to step in before problems go too far.
However, some individuals may require more frequent visits, particularly those with a history of dental issues or underlying health conditions that affect oral health! Factors influencing dental visit frequency can include:
- Individuals with a history of cavities or gum disease may need more frequent checkups.
- Smokers or those with high sugar intake should see their dentist more often.
- Conditions like diabetes can impact oral health, necessitating more regular visits.
What happens at a dental checkup?
A dental checkup is an examination made up of several steps to ensure your oral health is in optimal condition. Here’s what usually happens during a dental checkup:
- Your dentist will review your medical history to understand any conditions that may affect your oral health.
- A thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth will be conducted to check for signs of decay, gum disease, and other issues.
- Dental X-rays may be taken to identify problems not visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth, impacted teeth, or jawbone damage.
- Your dentist will discuss the findings, provide recommendations for treatment if necessary, and advise on how to maintain good oral hygiene.
If you’re surprised not to see ‘teeth cleaning’ in that list, then you may be thinking of a hygiene appointment, which is slightly different.
Hygiene appointment
A hygiene appointment, also known as a dental cleaning, is focused on maintaining the cleanliness of your teeth and gums. This appointment is usually conducted by a dental hygienist.
- The hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, particularly in areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing.
- Your teeth will be polished to remove surface stains and make them smooth.
- A fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen your teeth and help prevent cavities.
- The hygienist will provide advice on proper brushing and flossing techniques and recommend products to help maintain your oral health.
Why are dental checkups so important?
Regular dental checkups are vital for several reasons, ensuring not just the health of your teeth and gums, but also your overall well-being. Here are the key reasons why these checkups should not be overlooked:
Early detection of dental problems
Dental checkups help in the early detection of issues like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer, which can be treated more effectively when caught early.
Prevention of gum disease
Regular cleanings and exams can prevent gum disease, a major cause of tooth loss in adults.
Oral Cancer Screening
Dentists can perform screenings to detect signs of oral cancer, which is highly treatable when diagnosed early.
Maintenance of overall health
Poor oral health is linked to several systemic conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Regular checkups can help mitigate these risks.
Cost-effective care
Preventive care is often less expensive than treating advanced dental problems! Regularly attending your checkups can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly procedures.
Dr Lydia’s top tips for better oral health
Dr Lydia, previous Director at the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry 2020-23 and Bespoke Smile Academy Clinic Mentor, shares her top tips for maintaining optimal oral health between dental checkups!
- Brush properly and regularly – Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Ensure you brush for at least two minutes, covering all surfaces of your teeth and aiming the tooth bristles towards the gumline.
- Floss daily – Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach.
- Use mouthwash – An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and prevent gum disease.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks – Sugary foods and drinks contribute to tooth decay. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Stay hydrated – Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Avoid tobacco products – Smoking and other tobacco products increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
- Regular dental visits – Make regular dental checkups a priority. These visits are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems.
Regular dental checkups are a cornerstone of preventive dentistry and essential for maintaining good oral health. These visits not only help in the early detection and treatment of dental problems but also play a significant role in overall health. By following Dr Lydia’s top tips on oral health, you can ensure your smile remains healthy and bright.
Take control of your oral health today! Schedule your next dental checkup with Dr Lydia and experience comprehensive, personalised care. Contact us now to book your appointment and keep your smile shining bright!