Six months ago, our lives were forever changed as the novel COVID-19 virus spread into a worldwide pandemic. Fortunately, infection control measures like social distancing and face masks have made the transition out of quarantine and into our “new normal” possible. However, many patients are still hesitant to schedule a checkup and cleaning, even though they haven’t gone all year. If you are on the fence about attending your biannual appointment, read on for four reasons you should visit your dentist.
#1. Preventive Care Can Save You Thousands
Did you know that nearly 50% of Americans don’t visit the dentist at least once a year? Whether it is from dental anxiety or the current pandemic, it is important to remember that investing in preventive care can save you $1,000s in the long run. In fact, the Journal of Dental Hygiene reported that every dollar spent on preventive care saves you between $8 and $50 in the long run. So, a $250 checkup and cleaning can save you from spending $2,000 to $12,500 on cosmetic and restorative treatment!
#2. Your Dentist Is Implementing Additional Safety Measures
Long before 2020, your dental team followed rigorous standards put forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration. However, in light of the current pandemic, they are implementing additional safety and sanitation measures to protect both their patients and their colleagues. Therefore, don’t be surprised to see:
- Waiting rooms re-designed to make social distancing a practical reality.
- Additional personal protective equipment to add a supplementary layer of protection (i.e., face shields, disposable coats, etc.).
- Extensive sanitation practices (i.e., cleaning after every patient, asking patients to rinse with mouthwash before their appointment, etc.).
- Daily health checks for their staff (i.e., no-contact temperature check, screening questionnaire, etc.).
#3. Routine Appointments Can Catch More Than Just Cavities
All too often, patients view their biannual visits as simply a quick sweep for cavities. However, your dentist can play an instrumental role in the early detection of non-dental issues as well. In fact, 90% of health conditions have oral symptoms! That is why your dental team dedicates a portion of their examination to look for warning signs of diabetes, HIV, and osteoporosis (to name a few!). If your routine appointments are skipped, then these health concerns can fly under the radar.
#4. Your Oral Health Affects Your Overall Health
A neglected infection in any part of your body can pose a threat to your overall health. However, since your mouth is the entryway to your digestive tract and located close to your brain, it can be especially dangerous. Plus, the harmful bacteria in your gums can enter your bloodstream and quickly travel to your vital organs, like your heart and lungs. From there, it can spread and lead to serious health concerns, like heart and lung disease. So, make sure to prioritize your dental care and visit your dentist as soon as possible!
Amid a global pandemic, it can be difficult to know which outings are considered safe or dangerous. However, it is important to remember that your routine visits play a crucial role in your oral and overall health. Therefore, make sure to schedule your next appointment before the end of the year!