It’s no secret that regular dental visits are important for your oral health. However, many people choose to skip their appointments for a variety of reasons. Maybe they’re too busy, or maybe they don’t have dental insurance.
Whatever the reason may be, it’s important to know what can happen if you don’t go to the dentist. Here is a closer look at three of the consequences of not visiting the dentist regularly.
You Get Cavities
When you don’t go to the dentist, one of the things that can happen is you get cavities. Cavities are caused by a build-up of plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that can eat away at tooth enamel. If the enamel gets weak, it can create a small hole, or cavity, in the tooth.
Cavities can cause pain, sensitivity, and tooth decay. They can also lead to serious infections. To prevent cavities, it’s important to brush and floss regularly and to see your dentist for regular check-ups.
Plaque Grows on Your Teeth
When you don’t go to the dentist, plaque builds up on your teeth. This soft, sticky film is made up of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If plaque isn’t removed, it can harden and turn into calculus (tartar). Using mouthwash can help prevent tartar in between your teeth.
Plaque that isn’t removed can also lead to gingivitis, an early form of gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease. Periodontitis can destroy the tissues and bones that support your teeth. In severe cases, it can lead to tooth loss.
Mouth Disease Goes Untreated
One of the consequences of neglecting dental care is that mouth diseases go untreated. While some mouth infections are not serious, others can lead to more severe health problems. When left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a bacterial infection that damages the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Untreated periodontitis can eventually lead to tooth loss. In addition, research has shown that there is a link between oral health and overall health, so poor dental hygiene can also impact other areas of your health. For example, studies have linked periodontitis to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and respiratory infections. So if you’re skipping out on dental appointments, you’re not just risking your oral health—you could be jeopardizing your overall health as well.
Dental health is an extremely important part of your overall health. Untreated dental issues can grow to become life-threatening issues. Be sure you understand the consequences next time you forgo your regular dental cleaning.
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