Many people avoid the dentist office at all costs. Some feel it’s an unnecessary expense, others don’t go until they’re in pain, and still others simply don’t like it at all. Sure, it’s not exactly a treat to go to the dentist, but it is a very important part of maintaining your overall health and that bright smile that people see first. So, you just don’t feel like a trip to the dentist is worth it? Here are 7 reasons to see a dentist:
- Maintains Your Bright Smile
Even if you have an excellent oral hygiene routine, you brush three times a day and floss daily, there are still spots on your teeth that you’re going to miss. Over time, the plaque that is left behind hardens and becomes tartar, which is nearly impossible to get rid of yourself. A regular cleaning can tackle that buildup, and removes plaque from hard to reach spots, so your smile stays bright, white and healthy. - Saves Money
It might seem like a big cost up front, especially if you don’t think there’s anything wrong with your teeth, but going to the dentist now can save you tons of money in the future. Your regular dental appointments can catch any issues as they occur, and before they turn into costly procedures, like oral surgery. - Saves Time
Visiting your dentist regularly can save you a lot of time in the long run. The more often you see your dentist, the more likely he or she is to catch problems as they begin. If a dentist catches a cavity early on, a simple filling can be done in less than an hour, but if you wait until you’re in pain, you’ll likely be looking at a 2.5 hour root canal. - Protects from Cancer
There are warning signs for several types of cancer that can be quickly and easily identified by a dentist. If you visit your dentist biannually, it’s likely that any possible signs of throat, gum, and oral cancers will be detected early, potentially saving your life. - Prevents Tooth Loss
If your oral hygiene routine is less than stellar, and you don’t visit the dentist often, tooth loss is a very possible reality. Every visit to your dentist will remove buildup and bad bacterias, and will also alert your dentist to any potential gum diseases, both major causes of tooth loss. - Keeps You Healthy
The health of your teeth and gums can directly impact the health of every other system in your body, from your digestive system to your reproductive system. The healthier you keep your mouth, the healthier you’re likely to keep the rest of your body. - Cures Bad Breath (Halitosis)
You talk to people every day for work, at the grocery store, and at home, but if you have bad breath, it can make encounters with other people embarrassing or uncomfortable. If you brush your teeth regularly, and bad breath persists, it could be a sign that something more serious is going on. A visit to your dentist can help diagnose the issue, ensure you’re healthy, and get your breath back to normal.