While flipping through your calendar, you realize you have an upcoming dental appointment. Does the thought of having someone poke and prod your mouth fill you with dread? You’re not alone. Even though it’s strongly recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning, many people don’t do it because they’re afraid. Of course, that’s only one reason why people don’t like visiting their dentist. Read on to learn why people avoid regular preventive dental care and how you can overcome those obstacles.
Dental Phobia
Fear is no joke. It can stop people from doing multiple things, including attending their six-month checkups. Many people suffer from dental phobia, which is the fear of visiting the dentist. They might be afraid of all the sharp tools found in a dentist’s office, or they may have had a traumatic experience when they were younger. Whatever the cause is, it’s a common fear that affects both children and adults.
The best way to overcome this fear is by getting comfortable with the dentist who is treating you. That way, you’re more likely to trust them while they’re poking around your mouth with sharp objects. Additionally, you’ll be more willing to see them regularly since you know how they’ll treat you.
Lack of Insurance
We get it – dental insurance may be out of your budget at the moment. Although that’s a valid reason for not wanting to see your dentist, you should find an alternative way to cover your preventive dental care. Checkups and cleanings are essential to prevent more costly issues down the line. Most dental practices offer additional financing options or have special offers so you can get the treatment you need without having to pay for it all upfront.
Poor Oral Health
Some people haven’t gone to the dentist in years. They may not even take proper care of their teeth and gums at home. As a result, they might be ashamed of their bad breath and poor oral health. These people may avoid the dentist because they don’t want to get judged or made fun of when they open their mouths.
You shouldn’t worry – dentists have seen it all! If it helps, choose a dentist you trust and feel comfortable with for your first appointment. They’ll simply examine your teeth, professionally clean them, and provide you with tips to maintain your smile at home. Once you leave, you’ll realize there was nothing to be afraid of!
Not Experiencing Symptoms
If there’s nothing wrong with your mouth, you may think you don’t need to see a dentist. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Being symptom-free does not mean everything is fine and dandy with your oral health. You still need to attend your routine checkups and cleanings to ensure there are no underlying problems. Addressing small issues early on (especially those that aren’t noticeable) will help you avoid severe complications down the line.
Don’t underestimate the power of regular preventive dental care. By overcoming any obstacles preventing you from seeing your dentist in Burleson every six months, you can enjoy a much healthier, happier smile for years to come!
About the Practice
At Marvel Dental, we offer exceptional, comprehensive, state-of-the-art dental care unlike anywhere else. Our team always goes above and beyond to help every patient achieve their best smile. We enjoy educating patients to help them make confident and informed decisions for their oral health. If you’d like to learn more about the importance of preventive dentistry, visit our website or call (817) 933-3883.