How Often Should You Visit the Dentist? UK Check-Up Guide

Last updated: December 2025. This guide reflects the latest NICE guidelines and NHS recommendations.

How Often Should You Really Visit the Dentist?

The old advice of visiting the dentist every six months isn't necessarily right for everyone. Modern dental guidelines take a more personalised approach, with check-up intervals ranging from 3 months to 24 months depending on your individual oral health needs.

What Do the Guidelines Say?

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that dentists should set personalised recall intervals based on individual risk factors:

"The recall interval should be determined specifically for each patient and can vary from 3 months to 24 months for adults and from 3 months to 12 months for children." — NICE, Dental Recall Guidelines (CG19)

This approach recognises that someone with excellent oral health and low risk of dental problems doesn't need to visit as frequently as someone with gum disease or a history of cavities.

Factors That Affect Your Recall Interval

Your dentist will consider several factors when deciding how often you need check-ups:

Higher Risk (More Frequent Visits - 3-6 months)

• Active gum disease or history of periodontal problems
• High rate of tooth decay
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Diabetes or other conditions affecting oral health
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Poor oral hygiene despite advice
• High sugar diet

Lower Risk (Less Frequent Visits - 12-24 months)

• No history of dental decay in recent years
• Healthy gums with no bleeding
• Good oral hygiene habits
• Healthy diet low in sugar
• No medical conditions affecting oral health
• Non-smoker

NHS Dental Check-Up Costs 2025

Regular check-ups fall under NHS Band 1, which costs £27.40 in England (from April 2025). This includes:

• Clinical examination
• X-rays if clinically necessary
• Scale and polish if clinically necessary
• Advice on preventing future problems

Regional Variations in the UK

NHS dental charges vary across the UK:

• Wales: Band 1 £20.00, Band 2 £60.00, Band 3 £260.00 (check-ups free for under-25s and over-60s)
• Scotland: 80% of treatment cost, capped at £384.88
• Northern Ireland: 80% of treatment cost, capped at £384.88

Who Gets Free NHS Dental Check-ups?

You're entitled to free NHS dental treatment, including check-ups, if you're:

• Under 18, or under 19 and in full-time education
• Pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months
• Receiving certain benefits (Income Support, Universal Credit, etc.)
• Named on a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
• Named on a valid HC2 certificate

What Happens During a Dental Check-up?

A typical NHS dental check-up includes:

1. Visual examination - Your dentist checks your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of problems
2. Discussion - Questions about any concerns, pain, or changes you've noticed
3. X-rays - If needed to check for hidden decay or problems below the gum line
4. Gum health check - Checking for signs of gum disease
5. Oral cancer screening - Visual check of your mouth, tongue, and throat
6. Treatment plan - If any issues are found, your dentist will discuss options
7. Next appointment - Setting your personalised recall interval

Signs You Should Book a Check-up Sooner

Don't wait for your scheduled appointment if you experience:

• Tooth pain or sensitivity
• Bleeding gums when brushing
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath that won't go away
• Sores or lumps in your mouth
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Jaw pain or clicking

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health Between Visits

Good oral hygiene can help extend your recall interval:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste for at least 2 minutes
• Floss daily or use interdental brushes
• Limit sugary foods and drinks especially between meals
• Don't smoke - smoking significantly increases your risk of gum disease and oral cancer
• Limit alcohol - excessive alcohol increases oral cancer risk
• Stay hydrated - water helps wash away bacteria and food particles

Conclusion

How often you need to visit the dentist depends on your individual circumstances. While some people may only need annual or biennial check-ups, others benefit from more frequent visits. Work with your dentist to determine the right recall interval for you, and don't hesitate to book an appointment if you notice any problems between scheduled visits.

Regular check-ups are one of the best investments you can make in your oral health - catching problems early is always easier and less expensive than treating advanced issues.