So you are starting to think that it might be a good idea to go to the dentist for a routine exam. Nice work! But if you don’t have a dentist that you’ve visited regularly for a while — or maybe ever — you may be a little worried about what they might find. You really don’t want to be lectured about your oral health, either. Well, don’t sweat it!

Many people forget to have dental exams as regularly as suggested. The important thing is that you’ve decided to go now. It is usually recommended that you see a dentist once or twice a year, though different people may need treatment more frequently.

There are a number of compelling reasons why it is important for you to see a dentist regularly. A dentist may be the first to spot serious health problems like oral cancer and other systemic conditions. Your dentist will also help you maintain good oral health, and can diagnose and treat problems like tooth decay and gum disease — before they become serious and require more invasive and costly dental treatment and gum disease treatment.

Stop putting it off!

If you are nervous about having to sit through a lecture on the importance of dental health, you don’t have to worry. Most dentists have moved away from this anxiety-inducing strategy of placing the blame on patients. Dentists understand that your dental health is affected by of both environmental and hereditary factors, and they want to help you achieve an optimal smile.

Your dentist also knows that the more positive your experience is, the more likely you are to return! They will work with you to make sure that no matter when you decide to climb into their chair, you feel at ease and ready to address whatever problems are at hand.

If you are embarrassed about what your dentist might think about the state of your teeth, remind yourself that they have seen worse. Over the course of their education and careers, dentists are exposed to teeth with about every problem you can imagine. Remember, they are trained to evaluate dental problems and whatever you throw their way is not new to them.

One of the most important steps you can take to ensure that your dental visit is a positive experience is to be up front with your dentist about your dental anxiety and concerns. Let your dentist know if there is anything in particular that has kept you from visiting the dentist in the past, and ask them to try to avoid negative criticisms. Most dentists will be understanding, and you can leave their office knowing that you took a positive step for your dental and overall health.