Avoiding regular visits to the dentist has incredibly costly consequences, yet over 30% of people in Canada and the USA admit to abstaining from their bi-annual dentist visits. The reasons for this vary. For some, dentophobia -the fear and anxiety of going to the dentist, is to blame. For others, financial constraints mean they're not able to afford regular visits, some claim they don't have the time and some people even claim they aren't aware that they need routine dental care.

For whatever the reason, the consequences of opting out of regular dentist visits are the same. More often than not, avoiding will cost a lot more time, money, and mental anguish than having visited in the first place.

Why you should never put off going to the dentist

Whether you are experiencing pain or discomfort, or you are simply due for a preventative appointment such as a check-up and cleaning, avoiding the dentist has serious consequences:

Increased risk of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay.

Regular visits to the dentist can catch issues like dental caries (cavities), gum disease and tooth decay before they arise, or catch them early enough that intervention is simple, economic, and painless.

Progression of existing dental issues to more severe conditions requiring invasive treatments.

Dental issues left untreated will not go away on their own, instead they will fester, worsen and even manifest in more dangerous ways.

Development of systemic health problems linked to poor oral health.

Poor oral health has clear and terrifying links to serious health inssues including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

Compromised aesthetics and self-confidence due to untreated dental issues such as stained or missing teeth.

People around you will notice when your oral health is not being taken care of. Plaque build-up, gum disease, and persistent bad breath are just some of the ways that can damage your confidence.

Long-term financial implications from the need for costly dental procedures to address neglected oral health problems.

Dental intervention for issues caused by poor oral health can be incredibly expensive, painful, and time-consuming. Treatment plans can cost thousands of dollars and require months of management to heal. Procedures can also be painful during and after.

Even if you maintaina good oral health regime at home like regular brushing and flossing, issues still can and do arise without routine professional dental care. Regular visits to the dentist are part of healthy living and can help you to feel better and live longer. Proactive dental care today can save you from more significant problems and expenses in the future.

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