robweigner: Five Reasons to Go to the Dentist This Year

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Five Reasons to Go to the Dentist This Year

This Dental Chair Is Waiting for You!

It's been estimated that half of all Americans don't go to the dentist regularly. If you find yourself in that half, how about making a New Year's resolution to make it to the dentist this year?

Here are five good reasons why you should.

Five Reasons to Go to the Dentist

1 - Catch Problems While They're Small

If you regularly visit the dentist, your dentist will be able to tell you about smaller problems that you can easily and inexpensively get fixed. The quicker you get a cavity filled, for example, the longer the filling will last. If you put off getting a cavity filled while it's small, it could cost significantly more to get it fixed when it needs a root canal and crown a few years down the road.

You won't feel any symptoms with most dental problems until they are advanced. If you have gum disease, it's important that you get it treated. However, unless you develop a gum abscess or have gum disease that is at a very advanced stage, you likely won't experience any pain.

2 - Dental Care Is Better Than It Was In the Past

If you had a bad experience in the past, let me assure you that dentistry has come a long way. There have been many recent advancements in the kinds of materials that we can use to fix your teeth. Many modern restorations such as crowns and veneers look completely natural and can give you the kind of smile you've always wanted.

3 - There Are Ways to Alleviate Dental Fear

There are many drugs that you can take before you go to the dentist to make you drowsy so that you will be less anxious during your procedure.

Also, if needles frighten you, many dentists can fill small cavities using a laser without any anesthetic. If you do require an anesthetic, there are very strong topical gels that can be placed on your gums before the injection to make the injection nearly painless.

We've come a long way since the dark ages when dentists were a little crazy — check out these pictures of old school dentistry if you don't believe me.

4 - There Are Better Deals Due to the Economy

Many dentists are running new patient specials due to the fragile state of the economy. They figure it's better to get a new patient in even if they charge a really low price than to have empty slots.

If you perform an internet search with the terms "dentist the name of your city", you will likely find some good deals that will allow you to have a free or low-cost exam and x-rays to get an overall idea of your general dental health.

5 - There are Financing Options Available

Also due to the economy, some dental offices are willing to accept payments for dental work performed rather than requiring the full amount at the time of service.

Another excellent option that we offer at my practice is called Care Credit. This allows patients to have the dental work performed and then make 12 equal, monthly payments over the course of the year without paying any interest. If you do go this route, just make sure that you make all of your payments on time. If you don't pay on time, then they will charge interest, which is how they make a lot of their money.

There's No Time Like The Present

If you've made it this far, go ahead and make that appointment! If you're hesitant to make a dental appointment, feel free to leave a comment below and let me know why. I'll try to get back to you and resolve any concerns you might have.

Have a great year!