Let's face it, going to the dentist is usually not at the top of everyone's "I really want to do this" list. Many put off going to the dentist until it is absolutely necessary. But is this best?
You may be surprised to learn that good dentists really are on your side. They believe in preventive measures to help you keep your teeth, mouth and gums healthy and your smile looking beautiful. They're aware that their patients are concerned about how much dental care might cost, and a good dentist will discuss alternatives with you. Bottom line is that good dentists love happy patients, and they understand that it's up to them to earn your trust.
Most top ten lists are usually rather simple. They're geared to one particular type of reader, such as the consumer. But, like many things in life, there are often two sides to the story. In this case, I thought it would be interesting to see why patients feel the need to see the dentist, as well as why dentists believe it's important to get proper dental care.
Enjoy the two lists for the Top Ten Reasons to see a Dentist in San Antonio, Texas!
Top 10 Reasons to See a Dentist -
Why Patients Seek Out Dental Care:
1) Treat a toothache / ache in jaw or mouth
2) Treat tooth abscess or infection
3) Whiten teeth - Get teeth cleaned at dentist
4) Fix knocked out, cracked, broken or lost tooth
5) Fill cavity or replace an old filling
6) Routine checkup
7) Straighten teeth, fix a gap
8) Get help for loose teeth / dentures
9) Treat a sports injury to mouth, gums, teeth, tongue or jaw
10) Injury to jaw, tongue, mouth, gums or teeth from auto accident
Top 10 Reasons to See a Dentist -
Benefits Dentists Want You to Know About:
1) Dental care saves you money in the long run - It's affordable and most dentists offer flexible payment plans. Caught early, tooth decay prevents the need for more costly care such as root canal therapy. Studies show the dramatic benefits of preventive dentistry.
2) Dental care can improve your self-esteem and your confidence. Studies show that those with attractive smiles display more confidence. This type of confidence can have positive effects on your work, family and social life.
3) Oral Screenings. Your oral health impacts your overall health. There are strong links between good dental habits and one's overall health. The health of your teeth and gums can affect nearly every system in your body including your circulatory, digestive, respiratory and even your reproductive. Poor oral health can lead to serious illness and disease. Dentists can often spot things in your mouth that reflect potential health problems such as diabetes, hypertension and cancer. Even something like bad breath (halitosis) can be a sign of something more serious such as liver or kidney disease, chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, tooth decay or gum disease.
4) Fight periodontal disease. Gum disease is a common problem, and one that can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, increased risk of stroke, and high-risk pregnancy. It can also cause complications with diabetes, respiratory conditions and osteoporosis. Your dentist can help prevent gum disease. If you do develop periodontal disease, your dentist can offer treatments that will prevent it from worsening. New laser treatments are the most effective treatments available and can even reverse gum disease if caught early. Dr. Gregory Bowen, a San Antonio dentist who has been using the Periolase laser for six years, explains, "With this new laser technology, patients don't have to suffer with gum disease. There is no more need for painful cut-and-stitch gum surgery."
5) Maintain healthy teeth and bones. Your dentist can help you keep your teeth longer, preventing the need for dentures, implants and dental procedures. With modern dental care, men and women are able to keep their teeth for much longer.
6) Correct wear and tear to teeth. Cavities can occur and can go unnoticed until there is pain or until discovered in a dental exam. Many older adults have metal fillings from decades earlier which now need replacement. Jaw pain is important to address, as it may indicate a wide range of potential problems including TMJ. Cracks, chips, tooth wear and tooth loss may also need to be addressed in order to maintain good dental health. The newest technologies allow dentists to provide top quality caps, crowns and tooth colored fillings right from their office for same day solutions to old problems.
7) Good preventive dental care. Dental checkups and tooth cleanings are recommended twice yearly. Even with the best brushing and flossing, plaque can build up below the gum line and in hard to reach places. Your dentist can also provide treatments to help provide protection as well.
8) Straighten crooked teeth. Whether your an adult or have children with crooked teeth, it's never too late to consider modern braces. Advances in braces has lead to invisible braces, as well as tooth straightening in as little as six months.
9) Prevent tooth loss. The ultimate goal of every dentist is to help prevent the loss of teeth, whether from improper hygiene, bad genes, or accidents. Dentists want you to be able to keep your own teeth as long as possible, and then provide alternatives if you've lost them.
10) Help you achieve a healthy mouth and whiter teeth. The ultimate goal for dentists. Of course, most would also love it if you were so happy with their services that you refer friends, family and co-workers to them. It's the best "thank you" they can receive.
Finding a good dentist to help you maintain healthy teeth and an amazing smile just makes good sense. Help spread the word about the benefits of good dental care. Share this with a friend!
RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Andrea Algar - How to Find the Right Dentist - Your Step-By-Step Guide
