Most adults and children should get a dental exam every six months. If you have swollen, bleeding gums (known as gingivitis) or other gum disease, your dentist may want to see you more often. Some adults with gum disease may see a dentist three or four times a year. More frequent exams may help prevent a serious gum disease known as periodontitis. Periodontitis can lead to infection and tooth loss.

Babies should have their first dental appointment within six months of getting their first tooth, or by 12 months of age. After that, they should get an exam every six months, or according to the recommendation of your child’s dentist. Also, your child may need to have more frequent visits if the dentist finds a problem with tooth development or other another oral health issue.

A typical dental exam will include a cleaning by a hygienist, x-rays on certain visits, and a checkup of your mouth by the dentist. Dental x-rays are images that can show cavities, gum disease, bone loss, and other problems that can’t be seen by just looking at the mouth. There are different types of dental x-rays. A type called a full-mouth series may be taken once every few years to check your overall oral health. Another type, called bitewing x-rays, may be used more often to check for cavities or other tooth problems. In addition to the above checks, a pediatric dentist may check to see if your child’s teeth are developing normally. If you have certain health conditions, you may need to take antibiotics before your exam. If you’re not sure whether you need to take antibiotics, talk to your dentist and/or other health care provider. Also, some people feel anxious about going to the dentist. If you or your child feels this way, you may want to talk to the dentist beforehand.