Why every 6 months?

A stitch in time saves nine.  

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  

Choose whatever old bit of wisdom you like, but that’s the principal behind the 6 month recall. It’s easy to fool ourselves into thinking that if it doesn't hurt, everything’s okay.  It’s a trap that will leave us disappointed more often than not.  

Usually, if you wait until it hurts or “feels funny”, it can be too late to do small, less invasive procedures.  

My son Roger demonstrates different prevention methods at tee-ball

X-rays are important for the same reason.  They allow me to “see” where I can’t see with my own eyes – in-between the teeth and into the bone surrounding the teeth.  In addition to my physical exam, x-rays allow me to evaluate existing fillings, crowns, and other restorations, bone health, joint health, crowding, spacing, infections, possible cancerous lesions, and even sinus cavities.

This is loads of info I wouldn't have otherwise to try to spot problems BEFORE they are big issues.  The truth is that the 6 month recall is not only essential, but minimum to maintaining the health of your mouth.  In a nutshell, professionally cleaning and examining your teeth at least every 6 months prevents periodontal disease and decay.