It is no secret that going to the dentist is essential for your overall health. In fact, according to a study from the American Dental Association, more than 90% of Americans admit they do not go for regular dental visits at least twice a year. That means they are missing out on regular checkups and cleanings when cavities are developing or when tooth decay could be in its early stages. If not taken care of properly, it can lead to many health issues such as oral cancer, gum disease, respiratory infections, cardiovascular disease, and even diabetes.

The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

Many people think of dental checkups as just being about keeping your teeth clean and free of cavities, but it is much more than that. Regular dental visits can help keep your entire body healthy. Even if you do not have any dental problems, it is essential to see a dental professional for a thorough dental examination at least once a year.

Regularly scheduled dental appointments can help prevent serious health problems and help catch early signs of other diseases. Many people do not realize that poor oral health can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and oral cancer. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can help keep your oral health in check and reduce your risk of developing these severe medical conditions.

The Consequences of Avoiding the Dentist

There are many reasons that people avoid the dentist. It may be due to fear or bad past experiences. Whatever it is, there are consequences to avoiding the dentist and not scheduling regular dental visits. Skipping dental appointments and ignoring your dental health can be dangerous for your teeth and gums. When dental cleanings go ignored for too long, they can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, or infection of your gum tissue, which could spread throughout your body if not treated right away. These are some of the consequences many people face by avoiding the dentist:

● Tooth/Dental Decay
● Stained Teeth
● Periodontal disease
● Gum disease
● Tooth loss
● Expensive dental treatments

Tips for Making Dental Visits Easier

Many people find trips to the dentist intimidating and avoid going. A dental examination may not be your idea of a good time, but there are a few ways to make the experience more bearable:

Find a dentist you trust.

Finding a dentist you can trust is now easier than ever. There is so much information and reviews available online, and it is easy to find one in your area. But how do you know if they are the right fit for you?

Here are some questions to ask:

● What procedures do they offer in addition to dental checkups?
● Do the dental professionals have any specialties or certifications?
● How long have they been practicing dentistry?
● What are their hours and do they fit my schedule?
● How far away is their office from me?

Bring headphones and listen to relaxing music.

Many people find dental procedures daunting. It can be hard to relax when you are in the chair, and it is not uncommon for patients to feel anxious or nervous before, during, or after their visit. One way to make your experience more relaxing is by bringing headphones with relaxing music into the office. This will help you focus on something other than what is happening in the room.

Have your dentist walk you through the treatment.

It is normal to be nervous, but the more information you have before your visit, the less likely it is that your nerves will get in the way of getting through your dentist visit. Your dentist can walk you through what to expect and how they will help make your experience as comfortable as possible – so do not be afraid to ask your dental hygienist questions during your checkup appointment.

Bring support.

It is natural to be nervous about dental appointments, but you are not alone. Dental anxiety is the most common phobia in adults and has been shown to affect overall health. If you feel anxious, the best way to get through your appointment is with support from friends and family members. Bringing a support person can help put your nerves at ease. If no one can come with you, we will do our best to make sure that your experience at our office goes as smoothly as possible.

Reward yourself after your dental visit.

After your dental visit, having something to look forward to can help take your mind off the visit itself. After your visit, take some time to reward yourself. Whether you take a long bath, go out for a nice dinner, or relax on the couch with your favorite book, make sure you take some time to enjoy yourself.

Preventative Care to Do at Home

Dental hygiene is important for everyone, and it is especially crucial for people who have a history of dental problems, tooth decay, or oral cancer. However, even if you have never had a cavity in your life, there are still some things you can do at home to keep your teeth healthy and free from plaque and tartar buildup. It is no secret that preventative care and regular dental visits are key to maintaining good oral hygiene – but these are some simple things you can do at home to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

● Brush your teeth twice a day (and make sure you are flossing regularly) with fluoride toothpaste to control plaque bacteria.
● Avoid eating sugary foods and dark drinks that can stain teeth.
● Eat a well-balanced diet.
● See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
● Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.
● Quit smoking (or avoid starting smoking).

Contact Us for Your Next Dental Visit

At Throgs Neck Dental, we offer a wide variety of dental services to meet your needs, and we cannot stress enough the importance of regular dental visits to maintain good oral health. Whether you need routine preventive or restorative care, we can help! Our goal is to provide quality service with the latest technology and techniques so you have healthy teeth for life. If you are looking for excellent dental care close to home, please contact us today at (718) 518-8100. One of our friendly team members will be happy to answer any questions about what we do here at Throngs Neck Dental.