Why Skipping Your Dental Visit Can Cost You Your Smile

When your teeth don’t hurt, it’s tempting to skip the dentist, but that decision can come at a cost. Over 40% of adults in the U.S. have experienced mouth pain within the last year, and many of those issues could have been caught early with a simple dental check-up. These routine visits aren’t just about a polished smile; they’re a critical part of protecting your long-term health, including detecting cavities and gum disease, as well as spotting signs of more serious conditions. 

Continue reading to discover how often you should visit, what to expect during a check-up, and where to find the best dentist in Redwood City.

How Often Should You Get a Dental Checkup? 

Regular dental check-ups enable your dentist to detect early signs of trouble before they develop into more significant issues and screen for serious concerns, such as oral cancer. While most dentists recommend getting a dental check-up every six months, that timeline isn’t the same for everyone. If you have gum disease, diabetes, or a history of cavities, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits, sometimes every three to four months. That’s because certain health conditions and past dental issues can increase your risk of problems like tooth decay or tooth infection. 

What Happens During a Dental Checkup? 

During a typical dental check-up, your visit will likely begin with a professional dental cleaning performed by a dental hygienist. This thorough cleaning includes removing plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing can’t fully get rid of. If it’s been a while since your last visit or your dentist needs a closer look, they may take dental X-rays to check for cavities, infections, or problems below the surface. 

After the cleaning and X-rays, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and jaw. They’ll be looking for subtle signs of tooth decay because small cavities can develop into larger ones that require dental fillings, root canals, or even an extraction. But they’re not just looking for cavities; they also check for signs of gum disease, bite alignment issues, and early warning signs of oral cancer. They can even spot signs of other physical health conditions, like cardiovascular issues or diabetes.

To end your visit, you can opt for fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel or dental sealants to protect against future tooth decay. 

Smile Insurance: Why Dental Check-ups Are Worth It 

Just like regular car maintenance prevents expensive repairs, routine dental visits help catch problems early so that you can avoid costly restorative dental treatments later on. Most dental insurance plans cover two annual check-ups at the best dentist in Redwood City at no additional cost, making it easy to stay on top of your oral health. 

How to Make the Most of Your Dental Visit

To get the most out of your dental visits, it helps to come prepared: 

• Before your appointment, write down any questions or concerns you have, like sensitivity, bleeding gums, or changes in your bite, so you don’t forget to mention them. 
• It’s also important to inform your dentist about any new medications you're taking, changes in your daily habits, or any pain or discomfort you've noticed. 

Between visits, be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and limit your intake of sugary snacks to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Good oral care at home makes your routine check-ups easier and helps you keep the results of your professional cleanings longer.

Finding the Best Comprehensive Dentist in Redwood City for Routine Dental Care

At Redwood City Dentistry, we believe great dental care should be both high-tech and deeply personal. Here, Dr. Tara Firouzi, Dr. Shahrdad Kazerani, and Dr. Zachary Hollander lead a practice built around treating patients like family, offering a comprehensive range of services from routine cleanings and orthodontics to cosmetic makeovers and gum care, all under one roof. 

We’ve designed our Redwood City dental office with your comfort in mind, using advanced tools like digital scanners and intraoral cameras to make each visit efficient, precise, and stress-free. Whether you’re coming in for your child’s first dental check-up or planning a full smile transformation, we’re here to make your care seamless, supportive, and truly comprehensive.