Neglecting regular dental check-ups might appear to be a way to save money in the short term, but it can ultimately lead to substantial expenses in the long run. Getting an annual or biannual dental checkup done helps in timely diagnosis and treatment of any underlying condition. When a dental condition is identified at a later stage, it is surely going to cost a bomb as dental expenses are not covered in health insurance plans. Therefore, the only way out is to get your teeth checked regularly. Here's a breakdown, as suggested by Dr Madhavi Shetty, an Endodontist, and Founder of The Func Dent, of how forgoing dental check-ups can result in costly treatments.
Why Are Regular Dental Checkups Important?
Preventative Maintenance
Dental check-ups serve as a form of preventative maintenance for your oral health. During these visits, dentists can identify and address minor issues. Treating these problems early is typically less costly than waiting until they become severe. In addition, your dentist can guide you through the importance of some habits like:
- Brushing twice a day
- Cleaning your tongue
- Importance of flossing and how diet plays an important role
- Early Detection
According to Dr Shetty, “Regular check-ups allow dentists to catch dental problems at an early stage. For instance, a small cavity can be filled inexpensively, but if left untreated, it may progress to the point where a root canal or crown is necessary, resulting in significantly higher costs.”
Also Read: Dental Care Post 30: Keep Your Aging Mouth Young
Gum Disease Management
Gum disease is a common oral health issue. Routine check-ups help monitor and manage gum health. If left untreated, gum disease can advance to periodontitis, which requires more extensive and expensive treatments, such as deep cleanings, surgical procedures, and potentially tooth extractions.
Oral Cancer Detection
Regular dental examinations frequently encompass screenings for oral cancer. Detecting oral cancer at an early stage can save lives. “Delayed diagnosis can lead to costly and aggressive treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy,” adds Dr Shetty.
Orthodontic Concerns
Regular dental visits are essential for identifying orthodontic issues, especially in children and adolescents. Addressing orthodontic problems early with braces or other interventions can prevent the need for more complex and expensive treatments later in life.
Also Read: Here Are Some Best And Worst Food For Your Teeth
Watch this video for right way to brush your teeth:
Tooth Loss
Neglecting dental check-ups can result in tooth decay and gum disease, which may lead to tooth loss, shares Dr Shetty. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants, bridges, or dentures can be costly and often requires additional procedures to ensure proper function and aesthetics.
Emergency Dental Care
Skipping regular check-ups can increase the likelihood of dental emergencies, such as severe toothaches, infections, or dental trauma. As per Dr Sheety, emergency dental care is typically more expensive and may require immediate treatments like extractions or root canals.
Systemic Health Impact
Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Untreated dental issues can contribute to systemic health problems, potentially leading to additional medical expenses and a decreased quality of life.
In conclusion, neglecting dental check-ups can result in a multitude of expensive dental treatments and potential health complications. While it may seem like a way to save money in the short term, it often leads to higher costs and more extensive interventions in the long run. Regular dental check-ups, as emphasised by Dr Madhavi Shetty, are a prudent investment in maintaining good oral health and preventing costly dental issues.
