Every time you leave the dentist, you are encouraged to schedule a six month appointment; however, you may be one of the many people who avoid going to the dentist regularly, if at all. There are many reasons why people avoid the dentist, and none of them are beneficial for your dental hygiene. It is important that you always keep your gums and teeth healthy and clean. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that one out of seven adults living in the United States have untreated tooth decay and gum disease. Even with statistics such as these, many people will avoid visiting the dentist, for various reasons.
Fear
The most common reason why people avoid the dentist is due to fear. You may be afraid of being reprimanded by your dentist. If you have chosen a friendly dentist, he will always make you feel comfortable, regardless if you have missed appointments or not. Keep in mind that when your oral care provider goes over the reasons why you should not skip out on appointments, this is in your best interest.
Other people are afraid that the visits will hurt, or could be dangerous. The truth is, when you make regular visits to the dentist, you will receive advice and services to help you maintain great overall oral health. This could help you avoid potential dental issues and procedures.
Time and Commitments
Some people avoid the dentist because they simply do not have the time. With so much going on in the “real world,” you may have prior commitments that do not leave you with enough free time to visit the dentist. However, you should make it a priority to take care of your body, which includes oral care.
Cost of Dental Visits
If you do not have dental insurance, you may avoid making a visit because of the costs associated with this type of health care. However, when you avoid visiting the dentist due to routine checkup costs, you could develop a serious dental problem that cost more money in the long-term. For instance, catching tooth decay in the early stages is cheaper to fix, in comparison to untreated tooth decay that could enter the nerves and require root canal therapy.
Misinformation
Many people avoid the dentist because they are truly misinformed pertaining to oral care. You should never believe any of the myths associated with dental care; always consult with a dentist if you have any questions. One of the biggest myths is that if your gums are bleeding, you should stop brushing. Bleeding gums could actually be a sign of plaque buildup or inflamed gums. Dentists go through extensive training, and have the knowledge necessary to provide you with great oral care; therefore, their advice and diagnosis are what truly matter.
It is just as important to visit your dentist as it is to visit your physician. Living a healthy lifestyle requires you to maintain good oral health, which includes regular visits to the dentist. Put your fears and misinformation aside, and be sure to visit your dentist every six months. A good dental routine is essential when you want to stay in good health.
CDC – http://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/children_adults/adults.htm