Can I Eat Before My Dentist Appointment?
Most of us brush our teeth before visiting the dentist, but what else should (or shouldn't) we do before an appointment? What about eating? Should you or shouldn't you? This...
If you haven’t been to the dentist for a year, or more than a year, or more than a decade – don’t stress. You’re not alone. American adults struggle to make it in for twice-yearly appointments. Between all the responsibilities on your shoulders, a dislike of visiting the office, and a reluctance to engage with oral health, it can be tough to schedule. That’s why we’re here to help you make it happen.
The longer you go without dental care, the higher a risk you run of so many different problems (not all of them health-related). Keep reading to learn what you gain from visiting the office in the near future, and get in touch if you’re hoping to set up an exam. There’s no judgement waiting at our office – only care and guidance.
Why You Should End Your Break from Dental Exams
- Reduce your dental anxiety – That’s right – visiting the office could actually help you feel better about the dentist. This is true for a few reasons. Especially anxious patients will notice that the more time they spend away from the office, the scarier it feels. That’s because it’s important to normalize the setting and make it something routine. Plus, you’ll get to know your hygienist and dentist better and even look forward to seeing them every six months. Getting comfortable with the office environment makes a big difference – and knowing that you’re less likely to have dental problems because you visit regularly doesn’t hurt, either.
- Stop gum disease before develops – Gum disease is the top cause of tooth loss, and an ongoing struggle for countless adults. If you can prevent it in the first place, you stand a better chance of avoiding it in the future (gum disease is likely to recur in patients with a history). The first stage of disease, gingivitis, is easy to treat and manageable with just slightly more rigorous oral hygiene, but we need to alert you to it for you to take action.
- Get a fresh start – At each dental exam, your hygienist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth. This allows you to start at a blank slate and makes it easier for you to clean your teeth at home.
- Gain peace of mind – It feels good to know that you don’t have a cavity! Giving yourself that gift is as simple as an appointment.
- Catch dental problems before invasive treatment is required – As with gum disease, it’s always best to catch problems in their early stages. We’d rather you be able to just have a cavity filled instead of having to have a tooth extracted from advanced decay.
- Prevent non-oral diseases – Research is suggesting links between oral health and systemic health concerns like heart disease, diabetes, dementia, stroke, and more.
- Build relationships with your dental team – We’d love to get to know you better! The more often you stop in, the more pleasant your experiences.
