Whether you have perfect vision or wear glasses every day, regular eye exams are an important part of staying healthy. But how often do you really need to see the eye doctor? And what exactly happens during an eye appointment?
Below, our Kettering eye care time at Dayton Optometric Center answers some of the most common questions about eye exams, so you’ll know what to expect and when it’s time to schedule your next visit.
How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?
Children (Ages 3–18):
Kids should have their first pediatric eye exam around age 3 and again before starting kindergarten. After that, they should get an exam every 1–2 years. This helps catch vision problems early, which is important for learning and development.
Adults (Ages 19–39):
If you have healthy eyes and no symptoms, schedule an eye exam at least every 2 years. If you wear glasses or contacts, or have a family history of eye disease, you may need to go more often.
Adults (Ages 40–64):
As you age, your eyes are more likely to develop conditions like presbyopia, dry eye, or early signs of glaucoma. Plan to see your vision doctor every 1–2 years.
Seniors (65+):
Annual eye exams are recommended to monitor for age-related issues such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye problems.
What Happens During an Eye Exam?
When you come in for an eye appointment near me, here’s what you can expect:
- Medical History Review: Your eye doctor will ask about your health, vision concerns, and any medications.
- Vision Test: You’ll read letters on a chart to measure how well you see at different distances.
- Refraction: This part helps determine your glasses or contact lens prescription.
- Eye Health Check: Using special tools and lights, your doctor checks your retina, optic nerve, and more.
- Pressure Test: A gentle test checks for glaucoma by measuring the pressure inside your eyes.
The whole process usually takes 30–60 minutes and is completely painless.
Why Are Regular Eye Exams Important?
Eye exams do more than just check your vision. They can catch early signs of serious conditions like:
- Glaucoma
- Macular degeneration
- Diabetic eye disease
- High blood pressure
- Even brain tumors in rare cases
Many eye diseases show no symptoms at first. That’s why regular checkups with an eye doctor in Dayton, Ohio can protect not just your sight, but your overall health.
How Do I Know It’s Time for an Eye Appointment?
If you're wondering, "Do I need an eye appointment near me soon?" look out for these signs:
- Blurry vision
- Headaches
- Eye strain, especially on screens
- Difficulty reading or seeing at night
- Trouble with glasses or contacts
- Dry, itchy, or red eyes
If you're experiencing any of these, don’t wait—schedule an eye exam soon.
Where Can I Find a Trusted Eye Doctor in Dayton, Ohio?
Our optometry clinic in Kettering serves families across the Dayton area with friendly, expert care. Whether you need a routine checkup, help with dry eye syndrome, or a new pair of contacts, our experienced team is here for you.
We offer convenient hours, modern technology, and personalized service. From comprehensive eye exams to specialty contact lenses, we’re your go-to vision doctor in the area.
Local Tips: Make the Most of Your Eye Appointment
- Schedule your exam before a trip to Town & Country Shopping Center for convenience.
- Bring your current glasses or contact lenses, plus a list of medications.
- Write down any questions or vision changes you've noticed.
- Plan ahead—book your next appointment before you leave.
Your vision matters, and keeping it healthy is easy with the right care. Whether it’s been one year or five, now’s the perfect time to book your next annual eye exam.