MOST COMMON REASONS WHY PEOPLE AVOID GOING TO THE DENTIST

The team at Ramona Family Dentistry encourages all patients to have a dental cleaning and exam every six months, as well as schedule appointments to discuss dental issues and treatment options whenever necessary. But despite knowing the importance of seeing a dentist, many Americans avoid doing so. The team at Ramona Family Dentistry shares the top reasons why people avoid going to the dentist in this blog post.

1. COST

Cost is the number one reason why people avoid seeing the dentist, according to a recent survey from the American Dental Association. But what many people don’t realize is that postponing a dental appointment and care can actually cost more money in the long run. For instance, compare the cost of a routine dental exam and cleaning to dental implant surgery or full mouth reconstruction. Routine dental exams and care can help avoid extensive and costly dental treatment in the future.

Most dental plans cover preventive services, such as cleanings and exams, in full. Other services, however, such as fillings and dental crowns, are not fully covered. Your dentist can help you understand the details of your insurance plan so you can maximize your benefits. Many dentists also offer financing options to help patients pay out-of-pocket expenses through monthly low-cost payments. Bottom line, there are options available for you to receive the dental care you need without breaking the bank!

2. FEAR OR ANXIETY

If you avoid going to the dentist because of fear or anxiety, you are not alone. Approximately 15 percent of Americans experience dental fear and anxiety, some so much that they avoid going to the dentist entirely. Dr. Nathan Christensen, D.D.S. and Dr. Hemant Sachdeva D.D.S. is a compassionate dentist that can work with you one-on-one to develop a strategy so you can receive dental care without feeling stressed or anxious. He also offers sedation dentistry techniques, which involve using special medication to put patients into a deeply relaxed state while he performs treatment. Sedation dentistry can be used for simple treatments (e.g., routine cleanings) as well as more complex procedures (e.g., oral surgery).

3. INCONVENIENT LOCATION OR TIME

Life can be a whirlwind of responsibilities that make it difficult to set aside the time to visit the dentist. Many dentists understand this, and are open on the weekends and evenings to accommodate their patients’ busy schedules. Before selecting a dentist, make sure your dentist’s location and hours work for you.

4. TROUBLE FINDING A DENTIST

Finding the right dentist can seem daunting, so much that many people avoid it altogether. Unfortunately, the longer they postpone selecting a dentist the more they increase their risk of experiencing a dental problem. There are a number of resources out there to help you select a dentist that fits your needs. Peruse credible sites like Google My Business, Yelp and HealthGrades to find dentists in your area. Make sure your dentist offers the dental treatments you need (i.e., general, restorative, cosmetic dentistry or orthodontics) and accepts your health insurance.

No matter what your reasons may be for avoiding dental care, Dr. Nathan Christensen, D.D.S. and Dr. Hemant Sachdeva D.D.S. will work with you to accommodate your needs. To discuss your oral health concerns or schedule a routine dental exam, please call (760) 789-0170 or email Ramona Family Dentistry today.