It’s no secret that a lot of people don’t much like going to the dentist. But the truth is, there are many misconceptions surrounding trips to the dentist. If people only realized the truth, those twice annual visits probably wouldn’t be dreaded as much. Let’s take a look at some of the most common misconceptions about visiting the dentist.
Misconception #1—Going to the dentist means there will be pain.
Many of us have had bad—and painful—experiences in the past with our dentists, and the memories of those are so traumatic, people avoid going to the dentist at all costs to avoid a repeat. But dentistry has come a long way in the past decades, and many of the advances in dental technology mean that painful trips to the dentist are a thing of the past.
Misconception #2—Going to the dentist is expensive.
Many of our patients are fortunate enough to have dental insurance through their employers. But even if you don’t have dental insurance, you should keep in mind that dental care does not have to be expensive. Preventive care, in particular, is generally affordable, so staying up-to-date on examinations and cleanings can fit into most budgets. Price tags tend to get higher when you are dealing with more serious procedures, which are often a result of neglecting preventive care.
Misconception #3—Going to the dentist is only necessary when there is a problem.
See misconception number 2, above! Waiting until minor dental issues become major ones is not only more expensive, but it can also mean a lot more time in the dental chair. Prevention is key when it comes to your oral health. Taking the time to visit your dentist twice each year for examinations and cleanings, as well as having full x-rays done at least once a year, mean that you and your dentist can stay on top of your oral care. Dental issues are a lot easier, less painful, and less expensive to address when you find problems early on. Of course this also means you should be taking care of your teeth at home, so be sure to brush twice and floss once each day.
Contact our Archdale, NC, dentist to schedule your family’s next check-up!