3-Month vs. 6-Month Recall—How We Choose
San Juan Capistrano, CA
Short answer: there’s no one-size-fits-all schedule. We tailor recall intervals to your actual risk for tooth decay and gum disease—some people do great at 6 months, while others protect their smile better on a 3–4 month plan.
Why recall isn’t one-size-fits-all
The old “every 6 months” cadence is a useful starting point, but modern guidance recommends personalized intervals based on your risk and exam findings. (In fact, evidence-based guidelines abroad allow 3–24 month intervals, with 3 months as the shortest for routine recall when risk is high.)
Who benefits from a 3–4 month recall?
History of periodontitis (gum disease) or new periodontal pockets—ongoing periodontal maintenance at 3–4 months helps control bacteria and protect bone.
Higher cavity risk: frequent decay, lots of existing restorations, dry mouth, or certain medical/medication factors (e.g., diabetes, smoking).
Orthodontic appliances, pregnancy, or home-care challenges where plaque control is tougher. (We’ll coach technique and products and may stretch the interval as things improve.)
Related care:
Gum therapy & maintenance → Periodontal Care in San Juan Capistrano
Prevention visit basics → Preventive care in San Juan Capistrano (cleanings & exams)
Who fits a 6-month recall?
Stable gums (no bleeding/pocket change), few or no cavities, and strong home care.
Low-risk kids/teens with good hygiene and sealants.
Even then, we confirm at each visit that six months still fits your risk.
How we choose your interval at Kaban Dental Group
Gum & bone check: full periodontal charting + X-rays when indicated.
Caries risk review: diet, dry mouth, fluoride exposure, past decay, and restorations.
Shared plan: together we pick 3–4 months (higher risk/periodontal), 6 months (average), or occasionally longer for very low risk—with a plan to tighten or relax as your health changes. (Guidelines support this risk-based approach.)
What changes if you’re on 3–4 months?
Your visits focus on periodontal maintenance (targeting areas that tend to relapse), coaching, and monitoring—think of it as protecting the bone that holds your teeth.
We’ll also address small problems before they become bigger ones (e.g., Composite Fillings for early decay).
San Juan Capistrano & South OC: next steps
Ready to book? Schedule an appointment.
Not sure if you need a “deep cleaning” first? Read: Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning—What’s the Difference?
Swelling or severe pain now? Emergency Dentistry in San Juan Capistrano
We serve San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo, and San Clemente—and we’ll tailor your recall to keep you healthier with fewer surprises.
FAQs: Dental appointment recalls
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No. The ADA emphasizes individualized care; some need more frequent visits, others fewer.
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Because periodontitis is controlled, not cured—shorter maintenance intervals help limit bacterial rebound and protect bone.
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Yes. If your risk decreases (better home care, stable gums, no new decay), we can step down your frequency; if risk increases, we’ll tighten it. Evidence-based guidance supports dynamic, risk-based recall.
Helpful outside resources
ADA MouthHealthy: “How often do I have to go to the dentist?” (no one-size-fits-all)
CDC – Cavities & Risk Factors (decay basics & prevention)
CDC/NIDCR – Periodontal Disease (what it is, why it matters)
AAP Position Paper – Periodontal Maintenance (why 3–4 months is common after periodontitis)
NICE (evidence-based recall ranges 3–24 months)
