How Often Should You Really Visit the Dentist?
Six months is the rule of thumb most of us grew up with. It's a good starting point — but it isn't the rule for everyone.
The short answer
Most people: every six months. Some people can safely stretch to twelve; others do better at three or four. The right interval depends on your risk of decay and gum disease, not the calendar.
How we work out your interval
At your check-up and clean we look at things like:
- How much plaque and calculus builds up between visits
- Any history of decay, fillings or gum disease
- Diet, especially frequent sugary or acidic drinks (see how diet affects your teeth)
- Smoking, dry mouth or medications that affect saliva
- Braces, aligners, implants or other work that needs monitoring
Low risk and consistently healthy? We might suggest yearly. Signs of gum disease or a run of new cavities? Shorter gaps for a while, then back out as things settle. We'll always explain the reasoning.
What happens at a check-up
A thorough look at teeth, gums, tongue and soft tissues; X-rays every couple of years (or when needed) to see between teeth and under old fillings; a professional clean, usually with one of our oral health therapists; and a plain-English chat about anything we've found. Most visits take 30–45 minutes.
What about kids?
We like to see children by their first birthday or when the first teeth arrive, then every six months. Early visits are short and fun, and they build the habit. Eligible children may be covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule — read more about children's dentistry.
"I only go when something hurts"
We get it — but most decay and gum disease is painless until it's advanced. By the time a tooth hurts, a simple filling has often become a root canal or a crown. Regular visits are cheaper, quicker and a lot less stressful. If something is hurting right now, don't wait for a routine slot — see our emergency dentist page.
Cost and health funds
Check-ups and cleans are typically covered under general dental extras, and we claim on the spot. We'll always give you costs before treatment, and payment plans are available for larger work.
Can't remember your last check-up?
Book online with the Tidy Tooth team in Broulee or Batemans Bay, or get in touch if you'd rather talk it through first. New to us? Start with our new patients page.
Sources: Australian Dental Association (teeth.org.au) · healthdirect — dental check-ups
This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for individual dental advice. Your dentist or oral health therapist can assess your mouth and recommend what's right for you.
