Life gets busy, and regular dental visits can sometimes slip through the cracks. But keeping up with checkups is one of the easiest ways to maintain a healthy smile. At Jonesboro Dental Care in Jonesboro, AR, Dr. Jonathan Cook and Dr. Mark Kingston encourage patients of all ages to schedule visits before small issues turn into big problems.

So, how often should you and your family visit the dentist? The answer depends on age, oral health, and individual risk factors.

Babies & Toddlers: The First Visit

Your child’s first dental visit should be by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears—whichever comes first. This early checkup helps:

Make sure their teeth and gums are developing properly.

Get them comfortable at the dentist.

Give parents guidance on teething and brushing.

After that, regular visits every six months help keep their tiny teeth cavity-free.

Children: Building a Strong Foundation

Checkups every six months – Regular visits help prevent cavities, monitor growth, and establish good dental habits early on.

Monitoring orthodontic needs – Growth spurts mean changing teeth! Your dentist will track if braces or aligners might be needed.

Fluoride treatments & sealants – These protect against cavities, especially for kids who are still perfecting their brushing skills.

Teens: Keeping Smiles on Track

Twice-a-year cleanings – Teens are prone to cavities, gum issues, and orthodontic concerns. Regular checkups help catch problems early.

Wisdom teeth evaluations – By the mid-to-late teens, dentists check whether wisdom teeth need removal to prevent crowding or pain.

Sports mouthguards – Active teens should wear a mouthguard to protect against chipped or knocked-out teeth during sports.

Adults: Prevention is Key

Every six months for cleanings and exams – Even with good oral hygiene, plaque and tartar build up over time.

Gum disease checks – Many adults have early-stage gum disease without realizing it. Regular visits help catch and treat it early.

Addressing wear and tear – Grinding, aging fillings, and cracked teeth happen over time—your dentist can help prevent serious damage.

(If you have a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or dental work like implants or braces, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.)

Seniors: Maintaining Oral Health & Comfort

Twice-a-year visits – Even with dentures or implants, regular exams ensure gum health and proper fit.

Dry mouth management – Many medications cause dry mouth, increasing cavity risk. Your dentist can help with treatments.

Oral cancer screenings – Early detection is key, making regular dental visits even more important.

Schedule Your Family’s Next Visit at Jonesboro Dental Care in Jonesboro, AR

Regular dental visits help keep smiles healthy at every stage of life. At Jonesboro Dental Care, Dr. Jonathan Cook and Dr. Mark Kingston provide personalized, gentle care for the whole family. Whether it’s time for your child’s first visit or a routine cleaning, schedule an appointment today—because great oral health starts with regular checkups!

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