The American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist twice a year for routine exams and cleanings so they can clear away stubborn deposits of plaque and food debris, address infections in their early stages, and recommend better oral hygiene methods. Unfortunately, some people put off necessary professional dental care because they are embarrassed about their smiles. Here’s why there’s no need to feel anxious when you visit your dentist’s office.
Your Dentist Isn’t Going to Judge You
Many dentists chose their profession because they genuinely want to help patients achieve better quality of life through improved oral health. Because of this, they will never judge a patient who comes in with extensive oral health problems. In fact, it’s quite respectable and even courageous to take action to improve your oral health even if your teeth are currently in rough shape.
Your Dentist Has Seen Worse
If you’re worried that your oral health problems are exceptionally severe beyond anything your dentist has seen before, you are almost certainly incorrect. An experienced dentist has seen teeth in pristine condition, in advanced states of decay, and everywhere in between, so it’s extremely unlikely that you are the worst case that they’ve ever seen.
Even if you actually happen to be the worst case they’ve ever seen, your dentist will not recoil or make any mean comments about the situation. After all, their job is to get your mouth well again, and they’ll do everything in their power to help regardless of the current state of your oral health.
Your Dentist Can Give You a More Beautiful Smile
Many dental defects such as chips, stains, cracks, gaps, and damage caused by decay can be addressed with cosmetic dental treatments after any oral infections are cleared up. For example, unsightly cavities can be addressed with tooth-colored fillings, distracting discoloration can be lifted with teeth whitening, and frustrating misalignments can be straightened out with Invisalign.
You should never be anxious about your dentist judging your teeth. If you haven’t seen your oral health professional in a while, booking your next appointment can be a courageous and positive step to improve your quality of life.
About the Author
Dr. Garry C. Phillips earned his dental degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and completes more than twelve hours of advanced dental education annually. He is an active member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. His office in Frisco offers restorative dentistry, Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and emergency oral health services. To book your next dental appointment, contact his office online or dial (972) 712-0500.