A trip to the dentist doesn’t rank high on most people’s list of favorite things to do. You may be avoiding your regular check-up because of dental anxiety, or maybe you got busy and are now feeling a little embarrassed over how long it’s been.
There’s no reason to feel ashamed, even if it has been years since your last appointment. You should, however, schedule your next visit ASAP. Although you may not be experiencing pain or bad breath, you may have underlying oral health issues that only experienced dentists like Dr. Wenli Loo and Dr. Steve Deng can detect.
At their practice, LivWell Dentistry, in San Francisco and San Ramon, California, the duo won’t lecture you or make you feel bad about how long it’s been. They simply want to help you get your oral health back on track without judgment. Whether it’s been two years, five years, or even 20, here’s why you should schedule that appointment today.
If you brush twice daily and floss most of the time, you may think you don’t need regular dental check-ups. However, aside from getting a deep clean, we can spot cavities early during a check-up and stop gum disease from sneaking up on you.
Even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up in places your toothbrush can’t reach. Professional cleaning removes this buildup, aiding in the prevention of cavities and gum disease.
We also screen for early signs of oral cancer during every routine visit. It’s a quick and painless process that can potentially save your life.
If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, it’s easy to assume everything is fine as long as nothing hurts. But here’s what can develop over time:
Even the best brushing routine can’t prevent plaque and tartar from accumulating. Over time, this buildup can lead to cavities, gum disease, or even tooth loss.
Gum disease, one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss, starts as inflammation (gingivitis) but can progress to more severe stages that damage the bone supporting your teeth.
Cavities can start small and painless but eventually cause toothaches, infections, and even abscesses. If untreated, tooth decay can lead to extractions and expensive treatments like root canals.
Your oral health doesn’t affect just your teeth. Poor oral health can lead to other health problems, including heart disease, respiratory infections, and diabetes.
If it’s been years since your last dental visit, you might be unsure what to expect or how to prepare. Here are some tips to help put you more at ease:
Don’t let fear, embarrassment, or a busy schedule prevent you from caring for your oral health. Whether it’s been one year or 10, we’re here to help you get back on track. Schedule your appointment with the Livwell Dentistry team online, or call us at 415-477-3700 today.
