I used to be so afraid of going to the dentist that I put off going for a couple years. It wasn’t until my gums were inflamed and causing me pain that I actually went to go see the dentist.

I am not alone. In fact, an estimated 75% of Americans experience fear or anxiety when going to the dentist. 10% of those people have dental phobia. Those with dental phobia don’t seek dental treatment unless an emergency arises.

Yet, regular dentist visits are essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Here’s why you shouldn’t avoid going to the dentist:

It’s Their Job To Help

Dentists don’t get any special joy out of causing you pain. It’s their job is to keep your mouth healthy, and they will do what they can to make sure you are comfortable during any treatment or procedure (hint: they want you to actually come back). Many dentists offices offer forms of sedation to make treatments are more comfortable.


The Longer You Wait the Worse It Will Get

If you don’t floss regularly, plaque can harden to a point where it’s impossible for you to remove it by simply brushing or flossing. You need a professional to remove the tartar before it builds up and causes cavities. The more you visit the dentist - the easier time you will have each visit, especially if you are taking care of your teeth in between.


It Could Cost You More Money

Patients who avoid the dentists because of fear or anxiety often end up needing more restorative work done. The extra work being done will cost you more time and money. If left untreated, small problems will grow into bigger ones and cause infections and tooth decay. With regular check ups, you can avoid these problems from the start.

One Bad Dentist Shouldn’t Ruin Them All

Many people find themselves dreading the dentist after a bad experience with one office. Not all dentists are the same. There are dentists that do a great job of making their patients feel comfortable. Finding the right match for your mouth could make all the difference in your experience. Talk to people in your community to get a recommendation for good dentists in the area or check reviews.


Long Live Your Smile

If you take good care of your teeth and visit the dentist regularly, you won’t need false teeth or dentures when you’re older.

After my long dental hiatus, my hygienist told me something that really stuck with me and motivated me to take care of my teeth. She said “your goal should be to die with your original teeth”.

It’s so true. This is a lesson I had to learn the hard way. Getting the deep cleaning treatment and filling the cavity was enough to get me to start flossing my teeth every day and visiting the dentist twice a year.

Whether you’re on a first date or in a job interview, your smile is one of the first things that people notice. Don’t let fear get in the way of maintaining a healthy smile. Celebrate National Dentist Day by making an appointment today.