If you asked a group of people if they liked going to the dentist, you would probably get a lot of negative opinions. Many people don’t consider going to the dentist as a “fun” activity. While many medical exams aren’t fun, they are all necessary. Unfortunately, many people experience anxiety about the dentist. In fact, the majority of adults experience varying levels of anxiety concerning dental appointments. According to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, between 50% to 80% of adults have dental anxiety.
If fear keeps you from the dentist, there are ways to combat your dental anxiety. You can talk to your dentist about sedation options. From oral conscious sedation to nitrous oxide, your dentist can provide sedation that is right for you. Importantly, you should talk to your dentist about your anxiety so that they can help you through it. Your dental team wants to see you succeed. This is why it is important to go to your routine appointments. You will receive the dental care you need to stay happy and healthy. 
What Do You Get With Routine Checkups?
When you go to dental appointments, your dental team provides many beneficial services.
Professional Cleaning
Many people may disregard the importance of a dental cleaning. However, they are essential in order to maintain a healthy mouth. A professional dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar buildup. Plaque is a sticky bacteria that clings to the surfaces of your teeth. If you don’t remove plaque within a few days, it will solidify into tartar. Unfortunately, you cannot remove tartar at home because it calcifies to your teeth. Instead, you must get a dental professional to scrape it from your teeth. Without proper removal, it can continue to build and cause numerous problems.
During your cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove all plaque and tartar buildup with a scaler (a scraping tool). Next, they will polish your teeth using a high-powered toothbrush and a thick paste. This will break up any remaining plaque. Then, they will floss your teeth thoroughly. Finally, you will rinse your mouth, ridding it of any plaque or tartar particles.
Dental cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Preventative Benefits
During your exam, your dental team will take x-rays of your mouth. This will allow them to see what is going on underneath the surface of your mouth. Your dentist can see if you have any problems that will develop into larger issues. For example, you can develop a cavity and not feel any symptoms. When you make your routine appointments, your dentist will fill the cavity before it does too much damage to your teeth.
Another preventative aspect of routine appointments is avoiding periodontal disease (gum disease). Gum disease is an infection that affects your gums. It can begin as redness or swelling in your gum line that can progress to tooth loss. Your dentist can help stop gum disease before it advances.
Brighter Teeth
Another benefit of routine checkups is brighter, whiter teeth. Dentists can alter your oral hygiene routine to improve the look and health of your smile. Also, they can offer whitening treatments.