You may often find it tempting to skip the visit to your Dentist. It’s not easy to spare some time aside, from your busy routine to schedule an appointment. No one enjoys undergoing the process of getting sharp instruments and tools placed into their mouths. However, there are many bitter consequences that can arise if you omit regular visits to the dentist.

Here are the 7 worst consequences that can possibly occur if you defer your dental visits for too long:

1. Teeth Loss
   One of the most severe effects of avoiding the dentist is losing your Teeth. Most of the factors behind teeth and gum problems are treatable if addressed timely. However, you can lose your teeth, if you dismiss the warning signs and avoid regular checkups. Teeth loss can happen due to active periodontal disease or a tooth decay that remains untreated for a long time.

2. Painful Toothaches
   Caries and other dental troubles can cause excessive pain if they go untreated. You may neglect non-severe pains due to chewing or sensitivity because of hot or cold foods. The pain will probably turn worse over time if you don’t handle the cause. Instead of applying self-medication through stronger painkillers that don’t address the actual issue, it’s much healthier to visit the dentist.

3. Gum Disease
   Periodontal or gum disease is an extensive problem that can severely impact your overall health. This generally happens from long-term neglect of your oral health, particularly related to the symptoms of gum disease that can cause painful inflammations and even cost your teeth. According to some research, people with periodontal disease are possibly more prone to undergo heart ailments and other health troubles.

4. Painful and Expensive Future Dental Procedures
   You are more likely to experience painful and costly treatments if you wait too long to make a dentist appointment for problems like severe toothaches. You can avoid this scenario altogether if you visit the dentist at least once a year so that your dentist is able to diagnose any problems in the initial stages. This will also save you from heavy medical bills.

5. Risk of Other Diseases
   The evidence linking periodontal disease and tooth decay with other health issues like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, are on the rise. Plaque that appears in the gums can eventually extend to other parts of the body. So it’s essential to maintain good oral health to free your mouth of plaque and bacteria if you wish to maintain your overall health.

6. Stained Teeth
   The factors responsible for getting your teeth stained include smoking, consuming certain foods and drinks. Besides your regular brushing and flossing, a professional cleaning is recommended for a thorough cleansing. This helps in making your teeth look better and also defends your teeth and gums from ailments. In normal cases, most dentists recommend at least an annual cleaning per year.

7. Bad Breath
   Bad breath or halitosis, can also result from dental problems. Tooth decay and periodontal disease will induce an unpleasant odor on your breath. Having fresh breath is a part of regularly maintaining good oral hygiene. Avoiding certain items like tobacco and garlic etc. also helps to a certain extent in this regard. However, you must get the required dental treatments in a timely manner to keep away bad breath.

Going to the dentist may not be included in your favorite activities list, but it’s a vital aspect of maintaining your health.

The post 7 Consequences of Avoiding Your Dentist for a Year appeared first on OC Dental Implants Blog | Dr. Orest Frangopol's Blog.