Never, twice a year or only when you have to?
Over the years I have heard lots of excuses for not going to the dentist a big one is that ‘it hurts’. This may seem like a reasonable excuse as the mouth is a hypersensitive part of the body, full of nerve endings and any of these can cause pain.
With some dental problems it may be impossible to have no pain at all however you should consider that dentistry has changed over the years and there is all manner of new technology and procedures available now that is proven to be much more effective for both dentist and patient.
Some people feel that taking time out of their busy schedule to visit your dentist is a waste of time. “If I don’t have any problems or pain in my mouth why should I bother having a checkup?” They say.
Well, it’s good to know that the mouth is a mirror to the rest of your body. There is a direct relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Oral cancer is unfortunately increasing, however caught early the prognosis is much improved.
Other excuses include, “I haven’t been for many years will the dentist look down on me or tell me off?” and “What if I need a lot of work, it’s just too expensive”. A good dentist will never ‘rap your knuckles’ for not attending the dentist but will be pleased to see you and encourage you with advice and hints and tips for looking after your teeth at home. Regarding the costs, like anything, if you put off getting your car fixed the problem can get worse and the costs can rise, the same goes for your teeth. Remember, it is a cliché but ‘Prevention is better than cure’.
Aside from all of the health benefits of visiting your dentist, we are in an ever increasing age of ‘making the best of ourselves’. Good clean healthy teeth equates to sweeter smelling breath, a more approachable smile and is a proven confidence booster. Ask around for recommendations of local dentists or check feedback on their websites and social media the right one is out there I promise!
Tracey Bell
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