I Haven't Been to the Dentist In Years — Where Do I Start?

If you’re like most people, your day is a chaotic puzzle that jams in as many things as humanly possible. Inevitably, some tasks end up on the “do later” list. For about 100 million Americans, going to the dentist is one of those “do later” tasks that never seems to get scheduled.

If you can relate all too well to this scenario, it’s never too late to make your oral health a priority, says Jose Marcano, DMD, at the Orlando Center for Cosmetic Dentistry. Let’s explore why regular dental visits should be a top priority, things you can do to get back in the habit, and how to stick to it.

Why routine dental appointments matter

Let’s jump-start this topic by first acknowledging that dental visits aren’t just about keeping your teeth and gums healthy. While it’s absolutely true that going to the dentist for a dental exam is a great tactic for preventing cavities, gum disease, and monitoring teeth alignment issues, it’s so much more.

Did you know that your oral health is a leading indicator of your overall health? It all comes down to germs and bacteria. Many systemic issues like diabetes and cancer, kidney and heart disease, all have oral symptoms like mouth ulcers, dry mouth, and gum disease.

Your mouth is teeming with a plethora of bacteria, which are mostly harmless. Since your mouth connects to the digestive and respiratory tracts and many key organs, its precarious location allows harmful bacteria from the mouth to spread to other parts of the body. That’s why patients getting a transplant or heart surgery must get a clean bill of oral health before their surgery.

Components of a typical dental exam

The typical routine dental exam is the ultimate twofer – a comprehensive oral checkup and professional cleaning. Here at Orlando Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, you’ll get started with our hygienist. The hygienist removes any hardened plaque from your teeth that you can’t remove with at-home flossing and brushing. This step cleans away any potentially harmful bacteria.

 The hygienist also polishes your teeth and measures the pockets between your gums and teeth. The numbers – one to five – indicate how snug your teeth are against your gums. Fours and fives may mean you have or are at risk for gum disease. 

Next, Dr. Marcano performs an oral cancer screening. Finally, he conducts a comprehensive physical examination, which includes checking for:

• Tooth enamel damage for early signs of decay or cavities
• Damaged or worn-down teeth
• Failing crowns, fillings, and bridges
• Symptoms of underlying health issue
  

Creating a habit to prioritize dental appointments

If you’ve ever gone on a diet or embarked on an exercise or fitness plan, you are probably all too aware that good intentions don’t always translate into commitment.

Be honest about your past hesitancy

The great first step is to figure out why you’re lax in going to the dentist. Is it just a time crunch thing? Other common perceived barriers to visiting the dentist include expense, anxiety, and the feeling that one is being judged.

If you don’t think your current dental provider is a good fit for you, ask friends or family who their dentist is. Keep in mind that most people see their dentist more often than their primary care doctor, so finding the dental practice that makes you feel at home is crucial.

Make the appointment and show up

Now it’s time to take a deep breath and kick your past bad habit to the curb, and commit to creating a new healthy one. Contact your dental provider, schedule your appointment, and don’t cancel it.

Be strategic about the day and time, and make time for a potentially longer appointment. If you’re an accountant, and it's tax season, don’t schedule your dentist appointment during your busy season. Similarly, try to find a day of the week with fewer events planned. Avoiding overpacking into a day will make it less tempting to cancel your appointment. 

Create an incentive

While this may sound optimistic, it's always easier to find time for fun. Instead of thinking about going to the dentist as a mandatory task, connect it with something fun. Splurge a little after your appointment and pick up your favorite smoothie or coffee, or do a little retail therapy at your favorite store. Why not grab a bite to eat with a friend after your appointment? Linking a positive connection or rewarding yourself for following through will make it more likely for the new habit to stick.

If it’s been a while since your last dental exam, contact Orlando Center for Cosmetic Dentistry to schedule an appointment. Contact the office today at 689-220-2651 to book an appointment.