No one really likes going to the dentist. In fact, it is one of the most common fears that people have and is actually listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) as a legitimate phobia — Odontophobia. Maybe you avoid going because the thought of going to the dentist makes you break out in a cold sweat and you start thinking of an excuse, any excuse not to go: I don’t have insurance. My teeth are fine. I need to wash my hair. There are some times when you really should go to the dentist. Here are a few:
Persistent bad breath
One thing that indicates that you should see a dentist is if you have persistent bad breath. This is referred to as halitosis, and more than 85% of people that have it have it do because there is an underlying dental issue causing it.
Missing or broken teeth
If you have missing or broken teeth, you should probably go to see a dentist. Not only can these be unsightly and be a source of anxiety for many people, but missing or broken teeth can cause discomfort and make it difficult to eat. Ask your dentist about dental implants and if they’ll work for you. If you have no teeth at all, you may want to ask your dentist about different denture options (like All on 4 dental implants, for example).
Yellow or dark teeth
If your teeth aren’t as pearly white as they used to be because of coffee or cigarette stains, you might want to go to your dentist. Since smiling is one of the most important social cues we use, you might want to consider getting your teeth whitened.
If you have any of these three conditions or problems, you should probably find a dentist and get over your fears. Besides, these days there are plenty of advances that make dental work and cosmetic dental procedures much less painful than they used to be. More can be found here.
