What To Do If You Haven’t Been to the Dentist in Years

Returning to the dentist might make you nervous if you haven’t been to the dentist in years. We want to assure you that you have nothing to fear. We are committed to making this a pleasant experience that gets you back on the road to optimal dental health and a bright and healthy smile.

If you haven’t been to the dentist in years, we can help. Call today and schedule an appointment with Trident Dental for a comprehensive oral exam and professional teeth cleaning.

You Are Not Alone

Approximately forty percent of people haven’t seen a dentist in the past year. According to the American Dental Association, the top two reasons are cost and fear. We can help make the cost affordable and make every effort to eliminate any reasons you have feared dental treatment in the past. Depending on how long you have been away from dentistry, you will find the changes have made oral health care more efficient and comfortable.

What To Expect 

Whether you have decided to recommit yourself to oral health or have a specific dental concern such as a toothache, you have made a wise decision. Here are several things to keep in mind as you return to the dentist:

  • There’s no reason to be embarrassed. Your dentist and the dental team are accustomed to people returning after a long time away.

  • Set realistic expectations. Depending on your diet, home care, and past dental treatments, you may have some minor gum inflammation, small cavities, or more extensive problems.

  • You may experience gum bleeding and tooth sensitivity. These are normal after returning for professional teeth cleaning. Maintaining a schedule of regular cleanings will eliminate these in the future.

  • Your first visit back will take longer. Therefore, it is better to plan to spend more time for your first office visit. These visits won’t last as long in the future.

  • Expect dental x-rays. Most comprehensive oral exams depend on dental x-rays to thoroughly examine your mouth.

  • The dental team will be supportive of your return to dentistry. Dental professionals receive satisfaction in helping people maintain their oral health. You will be warmly welcomed back.

6 Reasons To Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Depending on your circumstances and oral health, your dentist will recommend a regularly scheduled visit for examination and teeth cleaning. The usual recommendation is every six months. However, a particular problem like gum disease may require an interval of every three or four months. Here are six reasons to follow the recommended schedule:

  1. Early cavity detection. Treating a small cavity can save you time, money, and possibly the affected tooth.

  2. Prevention of gum disease. Removing plaque from areas you miss with regular brushing and flossing can eliminate reversible gingivitis. Professional teeth cleanings at regular intervals can prevent more severe and irreversible periodontitis.

  3. Oral cancer screening. Detecting and treating precancer or mouth cancer can prevent extensive treatment and the spread of cancer to other body organs.

  4. Prevention and treatment of halitosis. Gum disease, defective fillings, and other oral conditions can cause bad breath.

  5. Examination of past dental treatment. Dental fillings, crowns, and other treatments need a regular examination to detect any defects that can occur over time.

  6. Evaluation of worn teeth. Age, misaligned teeth, TMJ, and other conditions can cause excessive wear on your teeth. Sometimes the solution is as easy as a custom-made night guard.

Schedule Appointment

We are committed to helping our patients maintain healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime. Call Trident Dental and learn about the services we offer to help you have a bright, beautiful, and healthy smile

Schedule Appointment

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