From haunted houses to scary movies to frighteningly realistic costumes, it’s exciting to get into the spirit of Halloween and find amusement in the things that easily frighten us. Although those things are all harmless, there’s one that isn’t so benign – dental fear. It may not seem like a big deal, but letting it prevent you from seeing your dentist can significantly affect your oral health. With that said, here’s why you shouldn’t be afraid of the dentist’s office this Halloween.
Why Is Dental Fear a Problem?
Everyone is afraid of something – and that’s completely okay! Being fearful is never a problem in itself. It’s whether or not you allow that fear to control your behavior that is an issue. Sadly, that’s what happens to most people who suffer from dental fear. If you’re terrified of going to the dentist’s office, it may prevent you from seeing your dentist regularly. And without routine cleanings and checkups, you’re more susceptible to tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. By putting off preventive visits, you risk needing more complex and costly treatments down the line.
The Importance of Regularly Seeing Your Dentist
It’s never a good idea to skip your bi-annual dental appointments. Let’s take a look at some crucial things you’ll miss out on.
Oral Cancer Screening
It may surprise you to learn that your dentist checks for oral cancer at every routine checkup. They’ll search for signs and symptoms as it’s easily treatable with early detection! But if left untreated, the disease can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening.
Teeth Cleaning
Even if you are diligent about brushing and flossing every day, there are small areas in your mouth that require professional help. At routine cleanings, your dentist removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria before it becomes destructive. It’ll lower your risk of cavities while keeping your smile bright and healthy!
Gum Disease Prevention
If plaque and tartar build up, it can lead to a chronic state of gum inflammation known as gingivitis. It’s one of the first stages of gum disease, but it’s easily reversible if caught early enough! Regular dental visits allow your dentist to prevent, detect, and treat gingivitis before it becomes more severe.
Catch Underlying Problems
A crucial aspect of routine checkups is X-rays. The images allow your dentist to see what’s happening beneath the surfaces of your mouth. With that, they can detect and treat underlying issues that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
How to Overcome Dental Fear
Are you afraid of going to the dentist’s office? Here are a few ways you can overcome your fear.
- Practice relaxation techniques (i.e., stretches, meditation, deep controlled breathing)
- Explore sedation dentistry options
- Bring a trusted friend or family member with you during your appointment
Don’t let dental fear prevent you from seeing your dentist. By using the tips outlined above, you can avoid a scary smile this Halloween!
About the Practice
At Longmont Complete Dentistry, we provide every patient with the attentive, high-quality, compassionate dental care they deserve. Our team will go above and beyond to make every visit as comfortable and relaxing as possible. If you have dental fear, let us know, and we’ll do everything we can to ease your nerves. Visit our website or call (303) 772-7000 to schedule an appointment.