Why You Shouldn’t Skip The Dentist

Many adults don’t go to the dentist twice a year. This can lead to some serious problems. There are a variety of reasons why people might choose to skip the dentist from previous bad experiences, issues with insurance, or moving to a new area, but there are many bigger reasons not to skip the dentist.

Why Do Dentists Recommend Two Visits Per Year?

When it comes to your health prevention is usually better than intervention. For instance, sunscreen can prevent sunburns and vaccines can prevent illness. Dental checkups and cleanings work the same way. By seeing your dentist twice a year you are preventing tooth decay, infection, and gum disease. Here are a few reasons why dentists recommend two yearly visits.

• Professional Cleanings: Even if you floss and brush every single day, there are things that a professional cleaning can do that you can’t with just at home oral care. Tartar and plaque can bind to teeth and are almost impossible to remove without using a dental scraper. Left unchecked tartar and plaque can cause tooth decay.
• Oral Cancer Screenings: Some dentists provide oral cancer screenings. Getting screenings annually can help catch cancer quickly before it spreads and becomes more dangerous.
• Dental Sealants: Dental sealants greatly decrease the risk of dental decay and can prevent cavities. Your dentist
• Dental Fillings: Getting dental fillings can prevent the spread of dental decay. The longer decay exists in the mouth the worse things are going to get. Catching it early is the difference between a filling and tooth extraction.

Aren’t Dental Visits More Important For Children?

This is a common myth and misconception. Many young adults feel that dental visits are more important for children and teens. When in reality they are important for everyone. While it is true that children have a few more reasons to go to the dentist (i.e. tracking the health of their primary and adult teeth), there are good reasons for everyone to go to a dentist. As mentioned above, getting professional cleanings and checkups can prevent dangerous issues down the road. Like with anything, the longer the disease is untreated the worse it will get. Tooth abscesses are often only possible because an adult hasn’t seen a dentist in years.

When Should I Switch Dentists?

One of the main reasons young adults might skip the dentist is because of a bad experience. Not all dentists are the same. When you were a kid you were likely brought to a dentist by your parents. As an adult, you have the freedom to find a dentist that works for you. Like with any medical profession, dentists are not allowed to do things you are uncomfortable with. You have a right to leave or refuse treatment. However, your dentist may recommend and encourage treatments based on your dental health. If you do not like the dentist you are going to, you have every right to look for a better one. Even if it has been years, do yourself a favor and find a new dentist. You won’t regret it.

What Do I Do If I Don’t Have Insurance?

If you are worried about paying for your dental visit check with your dentist if they have any financing options. Many dentists both accept common insurance plans as well as provide financing options and other payment methods. Cost should never be a reason you are skipping medical treatments.

Schedule A Dental Appointment in Chicago

All Star Dental has five different offices in the Chicago area. If you need a new dentist for you and your family, we would be happy to schedule your first appointment at one of our offices.