Everyone has heard that going to the dentist twice a year is an important part of maintaining good oral health. Routine checkups can help identify problems ranging from cavities and gum disease, to issues with your jaw, and even mouth cancer. Besides just getting a checkup, it’s extremely important to get routine cleanings by a dental hygienist. Even for people who brush and floss diligently, professional cleanings are helpful for getting into areas that are commonly missed. At Hazel Dell Dental Care, our dedicated and caring team will help you understand the importance of regular dental services and put your mind at ease.

If you’re one of those people that really don’t like going to the dentist, you’re not alone. Thousands of people each year skip going to the dentist for a number of reasons related to fear, convenience, cost and time. In today’s blog, we’re going to discuss the common reasons why people avoid going to the dentist. Keep reading to learn more.

Bad Past Experience

It only takes one bad experience to make someone vow to never go to the dentist again. Whether you felt like no one listened to you, they scolded you like a child, or you had to endure a painful procedure, a bad experience can make you assume that if it happened once, it could happen again. And why should you shell out your hard-earned money to have someone treat you poorly? Is it really worth it?

It’s understandable that you wouldn’t want to subject yourself to a miserable experience, but not every dentist is the same. Someone that doesn’t treat people kindly, or is insensitive to their fear or pain isn’t going to be in business for long. Finding a dentist that treats you compassionately will gain your trust and will help you realize that going to the dentist doesn’t have to be so traumatic.

Too Busy

There never seems to be enough hours in the day to get everything done that we want or need to do. When you’re juggling work, home, and family responsibilities, it can be easy to put your dentist appointment at the bottom of your to do list. But don’t put it off too long! Subscribing to a good preventative care program takes a small amount of your time and can save you from having to deal with very serious problems down the road. The best way you can take care of others is by taking care of you. Plus, you’ll be setting a good example for those around you.

At Hazel Dell Dental Care, we know it can be hard to get time off of work to come in for an appointment. That’s why we offer extended business hours, staying open late on Monday through Wednesday, plus opening an extra hour early on Thursday. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment.

Fear

One of the biggest reasons why people avoid going to the dentist is that they fear it will hurt. While this is a valid concern when you think about the drilling, poking, and prodding that usually happens, keep in mind we live in a time where there are many options to control pain. A dentist’s experience, numbing agents, and sedation techniques are all methods to control pain and provide you with a comfortable experience.

At Hazel Dell Dental Care, we offer all sorts of pain management techniques. However, one of the biggest comforts to you should be our experience. Dr. Kelstrom has over 35 years of serving the Vancouver area. In addition, several of our dental assistants have been working with Dr. Kelstrom for over 15 years. The longevity of the Hazel Dell staff is truly a testament to their dedication and compassionate care. You can read about the secrets to their success in the patient testimonials.

Cost

Cost is a very real deterrent for many people — especially for those who don’t have dental insurance. While skipping your routine cleaning is easy to do, the cost incurred with preventative care is nominal compared to the amount you can pay for having to deal with more critical dental services such as fillings, root canals, and extractions.

At Hazel Dell Dental Care, we want to work with you! Therefore, we provide several different options to help you pay for your dental services. We accept most insurance plans, many major credit cards, as well as cash and personal checks. If you’re concerned because you don’t have insurance, we even offer an in-office dental plan.

Call Hazel Dell Today

Make peace with going to the dentist. Going in for regular dental services can help you have a healthy mouth for many years to come. Don’t put off taking care of your oral health any longer — let the friendly, experienced staff at Hazel Dell Dental Care show you that you no longer have to avoid going to the dentist! Call today!