Humans are extremely adept at convincing ourselves to seek pleasure and avoid pain. But what if our motivations could be leading us wrong?
For many reasons, visiting the dentist is not something you enjoy doing. Routine visits to the dentist are the best way for you to prevent or treat any problems with your mouth. However, only 35% of Americans above 35 visit the dentist every year.
These are the top 6 reasons why people don’t visit their dentists. Six reasons why a twice-yearly appointment to the dentist can make you feel great every single day.
COST
Price is the main reason why people avoid going to the dentist. This is true for all ages. Even though it might seem more fun than saving for your next vacation, investing in your oral health pays dividends in many ways.
Poor oral health can cause tooth loss, problems with the teeth, self-esteem, and more extensive and costly work. Good oral health can help you maintain your teeth and improve your self-confidence.
INVESTMENT: Why you should see your dentist
Protecting your oral health is a great way for you to safeguard your most valuable assets: your teeth, finances, and sense of well-being.
BELIEF ORAL HEALTH IS ALREADY GOOD
People believe that if they brush their teeth regularly and don’t have any symptoms, then their dental health is good and going to the dentist is not a problem.
Your proactive attitude is admirable, and it’s worth maintaining. Your oral hygiene efforts can’t remove tartar and replicate the resources and techniques of a dental team.
Tartar, also known as dental calculus, is a hardened and crusty substance formed from plaque on your teeth. Tartar is not only ugly, but it can also stain easily. Tartar can make it difficult to remove plaque from teeth. This can increase your chances of developing gum disease, gum disturbance, and cavities.
Your dentist will be able to detect any problems and remove tartar from your teeth. Routine examinations and cleanings can help your dentist identify and treat any signs of gum disease, tooth decay, and fractures as soon as possible.
SELF-CARE IS REASONS TO VISIT YOUR DENTIST
The dentist should be seen twice a year. This, in addition to getting enough sleep and healthy eating, is essential self-care that will improve your health and quality of life.
TIME
Time is our most precious commodity. Research shows that spending time doing things that make you happy is more rewarding that buying expensive items.
It is easy to forget to visit the dentist if you want to save time.
There is a catch, just like all other reasons to avoid the dentist. It may be time-savings in the beginning but could lead to more expense and time later. Gum disease and tooth decay may cause irreversible damage. They can only be fixed by restorative treatment. You will spend more time trying to fix a dental problem if it isn’t addressed quickly.
LONG-TERM REASONS YOU SHOULD VISIT YOUR DENTIST
It saves time
ANXIETY
Dental anxiety and fear aren’t something that is unique to you. About 80 percent of Americans have some degree of dental anxiety. Fear or anxiety can cause 9% to 15% Americans to avoid going to the dentist.
Patients with anxiety about their teeth are more likely to cancel or skip their appointments than other patients. This can cause tooth decay or even tooth loss. This can cause anxiety about their mental, physical and social health. There are many options. Because it is common, your dentist can help you overcome dental anxiety.
SELF-EMPOWERMENT: Why you should see your dentist
Talking with your dentist can help to take control of your dental experience and health. Your dentist will create a personalized plan for you to reduce anxiety and improve comfort.
SHAME
If your oral health is poor, it can be scary to have someone examine your mouth and teeth. You may feel like your dentist is going to judge your dental hygiene.
It’s a vicious cycle: The more you feel embarrassed about your smile, the worse your oral problems will become. How do you get rid of the shame associated with your smile? Find a dentist who makes you feel at ease and takes care of your needs. A good dentist won’t judge you no matter how bad your dental health may be.
READINGS FOR YOUR DENTIST: RESTORE YOURSELF ESTEEM
You can feel confident about your smile and your mouth.
MISSING THE CONNECTION BETWEEN ORAL HEALTH AND OVERALL HEALTH
Your mental health and oral health are directly related (see #4 & #5).
Poor oral health can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, low birthweight, premature birth, and other health problems. If you have certain medical conditions, such as immune and metabolic disorders, your oral health may be at risk.