Part of healthy living is maintaining healthy teeth and gums. The brushing and flossing habits we develop when young are a good starting point. However, they should be accompanied by regular trips to the dentist. Only a dentist has the knowledge and experience to detect special problems or ailments that may have arisen. And a regular dental exam can help you get the information and advise you need to keep up your dental health.

There is, of course, quite a lot of debate about how often a person should go to a dentist’s office. Dental experts recommend that people go to the dentist for a check-up and professional cleaning at least twice a year. This is best on a thorough study by such persons, and is a reasonable estimate of what is required to maintain good dental health.

The standard varies, however, according to individual health and life habits. People whose habits have put them at every little risk of developing cavities and gum disease can get away with going to the dentist only once a year. However those whose lifestyle put them in a higher risk category should see the dentist more than twice a year. In the latter category includes smokers, diabetics, people who already have gum disease, people who are prone to bacterial infection, and people who are especially susceptible to getting cavities and who tend to build up plaque.

Such persons need to take extra measure to see about their health. An extra trip to the dentist will help them keep things under control so that they can live fuller and happier lives. Knowing how to take care of your dental health is an important part of maintaining your health in general. It is good to inform yourself. It can make a huge difference in the care and quality of your life.