Lifestyle
About four years ago, I made my way to the dentist for the first time in who knows how long. My teeth seemed fine; I had been brushing and rinsing regularly (with flossing being a rare occurrence). Thanks to some lucky genetics, I inherited my family’s tough tooth enamel. Nevertheless, after so many years without dental visits, I felt anxious about the actual state of my teeth and embarrassed about how long I had put off this essential care.
During that appointment, my new dentist informed me that I had eight cavities and needed fillings for each one. He created a treatment plan that required two visits. Even with insurance, the total cost would exceed a thousand dollars. How could this be? Although I hadn’t been to the dentist in years, previous ones had always complimented my teeth. Had my neglect over the last six years truly led to such rapid decay? I panicked and never made those follow-up appointments. Instead, I bought a product called MI Paste, which claimed to restore enamel, and I became obsessive about my dental hygiene. Every day, I scrutinized my teeth in the mirror, convinced I would discover those cavities. I felt no pain, but every time I bit into a cold fruit, I imagined the worst.
I didn’t return to the dentist until last year, three years after the initial diagnosis. I went back to the same office, feeling guilty about my absence but knowing I needed to face the music. This time, the dentist told me I had six cavities. Perhaps my efforts had reversed some damage. They wanted to schedule more appointments for treatment, but I didn’t feel the urgency this time. I checked the dentist’s reviews online, and some hinted at over-treatment for profit. That made me uneasy, so I sought recommendations and decided to get a second opinion.
The new dentist reassured me: my teeth were remarkably healthy, with not a single cavity in sight. From this experience, I learned two important lessons: first, that the initial dentist may have been trying to exploit me for profit, and second, I should never have delayed my dental care out of fear or anxiety. What if the first dentist had been correct? What if I had ignored hidden issues that could have worsened? I spent years worrying about my teeth due to someone else’s dishonesty. If I had sought a second opinion sooner, I could have spared myself a lot of unnecessary anxiety.
Many of us share a fear of the dentist. Experiencing anything beyond a cleaning can be daunting. I had a cavity as a child and went through extensive orthodontics, which were both unpleasant. Some of my closest friends have faced significant dental challenges for reasons beyond their control, such as poor enamel. There is no shame in seeking dental care, regardless of your dental history. Practicing good hygiene is essential, but even if you struggle with it, you deserve to be pain-free and receive the care you need.
Financial constraints often contribute to the hesitation to seek dental care, sometimes even more than fear itself. The cost of fillings can be steep, with more extensive procedures racking up thousands. If you find yourself in need of care but can’t afford it, consider looking into local dental schools, public dental clinics, or free clinics. Many private dentists also offer a limited number of free services for those in need and check if you qualify for Medicaid coverage.
Our mouths are integral to our overall health and deserve attention like any other body part. If you’re in need of dental care, reach out and don’t be ashamed of any delays. You won’t be the first patient who has postponed necessary care. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion.
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Summary:
Many people delay dental visits for years due to anxiety, shame, or financial constraints. A personal experience reveals how neglect can lead to unnecessary worry and misdiagnosis. Seeking a second opinion can prevent anxiety from health concerns, and financial options exist for those needing care. Everyone deserves a healthy mouth, so don’t hesitate to seek help.