The average person should be going to the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups approximately every six months. However, many people do not go nearly enough. There are many different reasons why people refrain from visiting the dental office, including a busy schedule and dental anxiety. Another reason why people skip their dental visits is because they are embarrassed at the dentist. Here’s why there is no reason that you should be feeling this way.
Your Case Isn’t the Worst
The first thing that you should know is that your case is very unlikely to be the worst that your dentist has seen. They look at people’s smiles every day and have been doing so for a long time. They encounter all sorts of different scenarios and help patients to achieve excellent oral health. Even if your case did happen to the be the worst, your dentist isn’t going to be disgusted, laugh, or say anything rude. It is their job to help you overcome oral health issues and achieve a smile that you are proud to show off.
There Are Always Ways to Improve
You might think that you have ruined your smile forever, but this is not the case. Dental technology has come a long way in the past few decades and there are more options than ever before to treat oral health issues. Just because your teeth aren’t in optimal shape now doesn’t mean that steps cannot be taken so you can work towards a healthy smile.
Your Health Is a Priority
Oral health and overall health have a lot more in common than you may think. Your dentist can tell a lot about your wellbeing just by taking a look in your mouth. If you are suffering from periodontal disease, you are more likely to have issues like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and pregnancy complications in women who are expecting.
Prevent Future Oral Health Issues
There are plenty of issues that will progress if you do not address them right away. If you have a small cavity that is not treated by your dentist right away, you may end up requiring a more invasive, costly procedure like a root canal or extraction in the future. If you have gingivitis, this could progress to periodontitis and cause tooth loss without treatment.
The Dentist Is a Safe Place
Patients often worry that they will be judged or criticized when they walk into the dental office. This could be rooted in mean comments or weird looks that have been exchanged in the past. This is not something that any patient will need to deal with at a respectable dental office. The practice is a judgement-free zone.
Even though going to the dentist may seem nerve-wracking at first, there is no reason to feel ashamed about your smile. By seeking the help of your dentist, you will be able to get on a path towards the smile of your dreams.
About the Author
Dr. Saba K. Abernethy earned her DMD from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine and is committed to continuing education in order to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. She is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Chairperson of Continuing Education for the Massachusetts Academy of General Dentistry. She is also a member of the American Dental Association and the Massachusetts Dental Society. It is her priority to provide dental care in an environment that makes patients feel comfortable. For more information or to schedule an appointment at her office in Cumberland, visit her website or call (401) 333-2700.