6 Reasons You Shouldn’t Delay Dental Treatment

You recently came to Sachem Dental for your cleaning, and during your visit, our dentist did an oral exam and found a few issues that require treatment. This came as unexpected to you. Everything may look and feel fine, so perhaps you’re considering holding off on treatment altogether.

But before deciding to do so, please think twice. Waiting puts you at risk for other problems.

You Risk Pain

It can’t be that bad if it’s not even hurting you, right? Well, first off, if you’ve ever had a toothache before, you know that it’s not something you want to gamble with. Usually, it’ll hit you in the evening or on the weekend. A painful tooth has a way of taking over your life and you won’t get any relief until you see a dentist for care.

You Risk Infection

Right now, your dental issue may be mild … but the longer you wait to get it treated, the higher risk you are of acquiring an infection. A dental abscess is a serious condition that can spread rapidly. It can cause a bad taste in your mouth, severe pain, swelling of the face, and trouble swallowing. It’s not something you should take lightly. In children it may even require hospitalization.

Antibiotics are used in dentistry to help calm infections. However, they by no means cure it. The only way to rid your tooth of an abscess is to get it treated. Usually, you’ll be looking at a root canal or an extraction. Our Long Island dentist will discuss your options with you and make sure you understand your choices.

You Risk Losing Your Tooth

Though we may be able to fix your tooth today, the longer you wait, the more you risk your condition worsening to the point where it can’t be fixed. If you’re considering waiting, you should ask our dentist how long they think you can hold off. As dental professionals, it can be hard to predict this sometimes, but in other cases, we can give you a general idea.

The Problem Can Spread to Other Teeth

Dental problems don’t get better – they get worse. If an issue like a cavity remains unattended to, it can spread to nearby teeth causing them to decay as well. Then the problem you had with one tooth is now a problem with two, or even three teeth.

Waiting Results in Needing More Invasive Treatment

A simple filling can turn into a crown. A crown can become a root canal. A root canal, if left unattended to will end up as an extraction. Each one of these procedures becomes more invasive.

More Invasive Treatment Means More Cost to You

The more work your tooth needs, the more expensive the treatment will be. If you’re told you need a filling, you’re only looking at a modest out of pocket cost even without insurance. If you wait and end up having to have your tooth pulled and perhaps an implant placed – you’re now looking at over a thousand.

Sachem Dental has been the trusted dental practice in Suffolk County for over 35 years. When we tell you that a tooth is in trouble, we’re fulfilling our promise of providing you with minimally-invasive and prevention focused dental care. If it’s been a while since you’ve had a check-up, call today to schedule.