Preventive dentistry remains the foundation for healthy smiles. Regular dental checkups and cleanings help patients get ahead of problems before they start and reverse symptoms before they worsen. While it’s no secret that these visits should occur every six months, you may wonder why you are encouraged to schedule one at the start of the year. Here are 3 reasons you should consider.
Reason #1: Your Dental Benefits Have Reset.
If you have dental insurance, your benefits have likely reset now that it is a new year. This means you must meet your deductible again, and you also have a renewed annual maximum you can use toward any oral healthcare needs.
By visiting your dentist early in the year, you meet your deductible much sooner and begin using your available benefits to improve your oral health in the months ahead.
Reason #2: Your Dentist Can Detect Problems Early.
The sooner your dentist detects any signs of cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, bite misalignment, etc., the greater your chances of maintaining a healthier, longer-lasting smile. By choosing to see your dentist at the start of the new year, you can get ahead of these issues before they begin to take a toll on your smile.
Your dentist can implement a strategy to treat any areas of concern so that symptoms don’t worsen, and you avoid more extensive treatment in the future. This will save you time, money, and potential pain caused by untreated dental problems.
Reason #3: You Can Get Started On Long-Term Treatment.
If you are thinking about orthodontics, dental implants, or any other long-term method of treatment, there is no better time to get started than at the first of the year. During a dental checkup, you and your dentist can begin preparing for tooth replacement with dental implants or teeth straightening with orthodontics. While the first few months may be dedicated to preparation, the remaining time will have you seeing your smile change in new and exciting ways.
Starting treatment now will lead to results you can enjoy later in the year.
Consider your first dental checkup in 2026 as a fresh start, a new opportunity to change your smile and confidence level for the better.
About the Author
Dr. Austin Amos earned his DDS degree from the University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston. As the lead dentist at Ridgepointe Dental, he and his team encourage patients to pursue preventive care to keep their smiles on a solid, healthy foundation. Offering dental checkups and cleanings, he ensures the stability and longevity of teeth and gums by identifying problems early and providing superior care at each visit. If it has been more than six months since your last dental appointment, contact us at (972) 625-4746.