Preventive Care
How Often Should You Really See the Dentist? (It Depends on You)
"Every six months" is a good rule of thumb, but the right schedule depends on your gums, your history and your habits. Here's how we decide at Tender Dental Care.
By Dr. Prabha Raju, DDS · August 10, 2026 · 4 min read
Most of us grew up hearing that you should see the dentist twice a year. That advice is a good starting point, and for many healthy adults it's exactly right. But it isn't one-size-fits-all. At our Burton office we tailor your check-up schedule to what your mouth actually needs, which for some patients means once a year, and for others every three months.
Who does well with every six months
If your gums are healthy, you rarely get cavities, you don't smoke and you brush and floss consistently, a six-month rhythm keeps you in great shape. It's frequent enough to catch small problems early and to remove the tartar that builds up no matter how well you brush.
Who should come more often
- Anyone being treated for gum disease, usually every three to four months to keep bacteria under control
- Patients with diabetes, which makes gum infection more likely and harder to heal
- Smokers and vapers
- People prone to cavities, including those with dry mouth from medications
- Patients in braces or clear aligners
- Pregnant patients, hormonal changes make gums more reactive
What happens if you wait too long
Dental problems are quiet until they aren't. A small cavity that would have been a simple filling becomes a crown; inflamed gums become bone loss. The cost, in time, money and comfort, goes up the longer something is left. If it's been a while, don't let that stop you from coming in. We see patients every week who haven't had a cleaning in years, and there's never any judgment. Just a plan.
The bottom line
Come in, let us look, and we'll tell you honestly how often you need to be here. If you're due, or overdue. Call us at (810) 715-3368 or request an appointment online. We're on N. Genesee Road in Burton, minutes from Flint, Davison and Grand Blanc.
Questions patients ask us
For most healthy adults, yes. If you have gum disease, diabetes, braces or frequent cavities, every three to four months protects you better. We'll tell you honestly which schedule fits you.
Most PPO plans cover two preventive visits per year, and many cover more frequent periodontal maintenance when it's medically needed. Our team checks your benefits before you come in.
Request a visit online or call (810) 715-3368. Your first appointment is a conversation, an exam and a plan. No lectures.
Have a question about your smile? Ask a Burton dentist who listens.
Tender Dental Care welcomes new patients from Burton, Flint, Grand Blanc, Davison and all of Genesee County. Request a visit online or call and a real person will answer during office hours.
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About the author
Dr. Prabha Raju, DDS
Dr. Raju has practiced dentistry in Burton, Michigan since 1997, with advanced training in implants, sedation, laser dentistry and Invisalign.
Meet Dr. Raju →Tender Dental Care, 1024 N. Genesee Rd, Burton, MI 48509. Serving Flint, Grand Blanc, Davison, Flushing, Swartz Creek, Fenton and Genesee County. This article is general information, not a diagnosis; please see a dentist for advice about your own mouth.
