Experts (including your dentist) recommend that you visit your dentist twice a year for your regular, biannual dental exam and cleaning. But despite these guidelines, many patients simply don’t go as often as they should. Unfortunately, there are many reasons why people skip their routine oral health checkups, but here’s why you shouldn’t let these common excuses keep you from safeguarding your smile!
Cost
One major reason some patients don’t go to the dentist regularly is their concern for the cost. Whether they are afraid of the exam and cleaning itself being expensive or they’re afraid of the cost of treatments they may believe they need, the unfortunate truth is that the longer you put off taking care of your teeth and gums, the more expensive it will get. What could be a small cavity now could eventually need a crown, and those bleeding gums could become periodontal disease if not treated early on. Thus, even if you don’t think it’s worth the cost to invest in your oral health, if you neglect it for too long, it could cost not just more money, but your teeth too!
Anxiety or Fear
Dental fear or anxiety is very common, even among adults, and it can sometimes prevent them from getting important oral health care. Whether it’s the memory of a bad experience, the fear of pain, or some other reason, these patients often use their anxiety to justify skipping their exams. The great news is that your dentist offers sedation dentistry options that can help you relax during your appointment. In fact, you don’t even need to have a major procedure. Even patients undergoing their routine exam and cleaning can benefit from sedation dentistry, so speak to your dentist and see if this treatment is right for you.
Time
Time is money, as they say, and some people simply believe they don’t have the time in their schedule to care for their oral health. The good news is that routine appointments shouldn’t take long, and your dentist can often accommodate late or early hours. While it’s certainly not everyone’s favorite way to spend their time, self-care is extremely important when it comes to your oral health, so put your phone on ‘do not disturb’ and get the care your smile deserves.
Embarrassment
If it’s been a while since you’ve been to the dentist, you may be embarrassed or ashamed of the condition of your teeth and gums. But don’t be! Your dentist and dental team are here to help you have a healthy mouth and beautiful smile, not to judge you. Don’t let self-consciousness about the condition of your oral health prevent you from getting important care. Your dental team can help you treat any problems that have arisen since your last visit, so you can once again smile with confidence!
Remember, there are always going to be excuses to not take care of your teeth and gums, but there are more reasons why visiting your dentist regularly is a good idea. If you’re struggling with dental anxiety, speak to your dentist about your sedation options and don’t let fear hold you back from a beautiful smile.
About Dr. Burton
Dr. Molly Burton understands that while excellent oral health is vital to overall health and wellbeing, it can be difficult for some patients to relax long enough to sit for a cleaning and exam. That’s why at Magnolia Family Dentistry of Austin, Dr. Burton is proud to provide sedation dentistry options for her patients. Whether you need your biannual exam, an important treatment, or you’d like to undergo a cosmetic procedure, speak to us about whether sedation is right for you.
To schedule an appointment or consultation for sedation dentistry, please visit our website or call us today at 512-441-2098.