I'm with you Patty! I worked in dentistry so if I said something other than twice a year I would be in trouble.
I go every six months. I currently don't have dental insurance but I am on their no ins plan where we pay $25 a month and you get two free cleanings a year(basically paying for them unless you have any other more expenses) you get a discount on fillings and crowns and root canals. it does save you $$ if that happens. I had a root canal last year that I got for $650 and it would of been $1200 had I not been on this plan. so as much as you hate a monthly payment it definately makes you glad you have it when something goes awry.