The Real Cost of Putting Off a Dental Check-Up

Skipping the dentist might seem as though it is something that is really harmless. But if you skip your checkup, you might create more problems for the future that could have been prevented.

A routine visit is about more than just cleaning your teeth. It’s where you can find and notice small changes before they grow into something more serious.

Let’s have a look at this more below.

How Small Issues Snowball Into Bigger Problems

Cavities are something that start off small and quiet. You won’t feel them when they are in the early stages. But over time, they become worse and impact the nerve of your tooth. This is where it goes from a simple fix to requiring a root canal or extraction, not what you want.

Gum disease also works in the same way. Early signs like bleeding gums or mild inflammation are simple to treat, but if you choose to ignore them, gum disease can lead to bone loss, loose teeth, and needing more complex and more expensive treatments.

What Delays Mean for Your Wallet and Well-being

Dental care is one of those situations where prevention is really important, and it is much less expensive than any treatment you might need. A standard up and cleaning is far cheaper than needing to have a crown, filling, or even surgery. Delays also multiply the bill because issues that could have been managed early turn into several procedures later.

But the price of this is not just a financial one. Any pain or discomfort that you get from waiting to be seen, such as a toothache or swelling, can damage your sleep and everyday life. In some cases, you may also lead to other health issues.

You may also find yourself having to book emergency visits, which can be stressful and also even more expensive. You should make sure you have regular checkups with a place like Somers Square Dental at least every 12 months.

Building a Routine That Feels Doable Instead of Daunting

The key to staying on top of your dental care is making it a normal part of your routine. Most people only need to go to the dentist twice or once a year. Make sure these are in your calendar and you never put them off.

If they cause you stress or anxiety, talk to your dentist about it. Many have a big focus on patient comfort and can walk you through everything they are doing during your visits. This can help you to feel more at ease with each visit.

Everyday habits are also important. You need to be brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and ensure you are flossing once a day, at a minimum. This helps to protect you from gum disease and lowers the chance of you getting cavities.

Conclusion

As you can see, it can be expensive in more ways than one to miss dentist appointments and not look after the health of your teeth. Do you make sure you go to the dentist? If not, what stops you?