When your schedule fills up, it’s often the regular health checkups that get pushed aside. If you’re feeling okay, skipping a checkup here and there might not seem like a big deal. But the truth is, regular health visits can catch small problems before they turn into bigger ones. They also give you peace of mind and help you stay on top of your overall well-being.
Here are five health appointments that adults should make a priority each year. They’re simple, quick, and can make a big difference in the long run.
1. Dental and Orthodontic Checkups
A lot of adults forget about dental care unless something starts to hurt. But even if your teeth feel fine, seeing your dentist twice a year is still important. These visits help remove plaque, check for cavities, and keep your gums healthy. Gum disease and tooth decay can sneak up without any symptoms, so regular cleanings matter more than most people realize.
Orthodontic care is just as important, especially for adults who didn’t get treatment when they were younger, or who had braces and now need a small correction. Crooked teeth, bite problems, and jaw pain can affect your ability to chew, speak, or even sleep well.
Today’s options are way better than the metal braces you remember from high school. Practices like Tennison Orthodontics offer customized, comfortable solutions that fit your lifestyle. Whether it’s clear aligners or 3D-printed LightForce braces, adult orthodontic treatment can be simple and discreet.
2. Eye Exams
Your vision can change slowly over time, and you might not notice it right away. That’s why eye exams are important, even if you don’t wear glasses. An eye doctor can check for common issues like nearsightedness or farsightedness, but they also look for signs of eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration.
These conditions often show no early symptoms. Some eye exams can even pick up signs of health problems like high blood pressure or diabetes. If it’s been more than two years since your last visit, it’s time to schedule one. It’s a small step that helps protect one of your most important senses.
3. Skin Screenings
Most people don’t think about skin checks until something looks off. But regular screenings with a dermatologist can catch skin cancer early, especially melanoma. That’s the most serious kind, and it can spread fast if it’s not caught in time.
Dermatologists know what to look for, even in spots you might miss—like your scalp, back, or behind your ears. If you’ve ever had a sunburn or spend a lot of time outside, you’re at risk. Once a year is usually enough for a full-body skin check, and it only takes a few minutes.
You can also do a monthly self-check at home. Look for new moles or spots that have changed shape, color, or size. If something looks different, don’t wait—get it checked.
4. General Physicals
An annual physical is your chance to get a full picture of your health. These visits help track things like your blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol, and weight. If any of these numbers are off, your doctor can help you make a plan before it turns into a bigger issue.
Your provider might also do routine bloodwork to check for diabetes, thyroid issues, or vitamin deficiencies. Plus, it’s a great time to talk about any ongoing problems, like low energy, sleep issues, or joint pain. You don’t have to deal with those things alone.
A physical is quick, affordable, and a great way to stay ahead of potential health problems. If it’s been more than a year, make that appointment.
5. Women’s and Men’s Preventive Care
Some health checks are gender-specific, and they’re just as important. For women, that usually means an annual OB-GYN visit. These include breast exams, pelvic exams, and pap smears. They’re key to catching cervical or breast cancer early, and talking through any menstrual or hormonal concerns.
For men, it’s important to get regular prostate exams, especially after age 40. Your doctor might also recommend a testicular exam or screening for testosterone levels if there are concerns.
Regardless of gender, adults should stay up to date on vaccines, too. Flu shots, COVID boosters, and tetanus updates are quick and can help you avoid serious illness. Some clinics even offer wellness packages that bundle screenings, which makes it easier to knock everything out in one visit.
Taking care of your health doesn’t need to be overwhelming. These five appointments are simple, but they go a long way in helping you stay well. They give your care team the chance to catch problems early, and give you peace of mind knowing you’re staying on track.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, pick one thing from this list and get it scheduled. Whether it’s a dental cleaning, eye exam, or general physical, a little effort now can save you time, money, and stress later. Your body works hard for you—give it the check-ins it deserves.
