The Long Term Consequences of Avoiding Oral Care

 

There are many reasons why people avoid taking care of their teeth. Some may struggle with dental anxiety, while others may be overwhelmed by the complexity of proper oral care. Others simply might not have enough time in their busy schedules to properly brush and floss every day, or might even avoid seeing the dentist altogether.

Regardless of the specific reason, all of these choices can have long-term impacts on our teeth and gums. The truth is that our smiles require regular, direct dental care from us in order to stay healthy and strong. Even if you have healthy teeth and gums, skipping out on oral care can still have negative consequences on your smile over time. The best way to protect your teeth is to make a commitment to regular brushing and flossing, as well as scheduling routine visits to the dentist. With these simple steps, you can keep your smile looking bright and healthy for years to come!

Tooth Decay 

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems, and it occurs when bad bacteria in the mouth damage the teeth. If bacteria are allowed to become unbalanced and overgrow in the mouth, your tooth’s enamel is at serious risk. Enamel is the shiny, protective layer over our teeth. Once this substance is gone, there’s no way to replace it. Without tooth enamel or damaged enamel, our teeth are subject to cavities. Cavities are small holes in the teeth that can cause pain, sensitivity, and infections.

To prevent cavities, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. In addition, regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for keeping your mouth healthy and preventing cavities. Also, be sure to schedule your regular bi-yearly dental cleanings with your St. Pete Dentist. 

Gum Disease

It’s not always easy to know when gum disease has become a problem. Often, plaque and bacteria build up around your gum line, which irritates both your gums and your tooth’s root. This leads gums to become infected and pull back away from your teeth. In addition to causing sensitivity, gum disease can also cause tooth roots to become damaged, which in turn creates loose teeth. Signs of gum disease include bleeding gums, gum recession, and bad breath. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your St. Pete Dentist right away. Gum disease is treatable in its early stages, but it can quickly become more severe if it’s not treated promptly. With proper dental care, you can keep your smile healthy and free from gum disease.

Increase Future Costs Of Dental Care 

When it comes to dental care, it can be tempting to save money and put off making regular visits to the dentist. However, this short-term thinking can actually increase your long-term costs for dental care. Because neglected teeth are far more prone to decay and other issues that require additional treatment, a lack of consistent oral care inevitably leads to larger expenses down the road. Simply taking care of your teeth by practicing good hygiene and making healthy choices such as eating plenty of nutritious foods can help you maintain optimal oral health, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run. So don’t neglect your dental health – take good care of your teeth today so that you won’t have to pay more tomorrow! If you do not have dental insurance we invite you to learn more about our dental savings plan. Additionally, we welcome most major dental insurance providers. Contact us for details.