The Independent (UK) (9/20, Gander) stated skipping regular dental visits may be associated
with “rapid deterioration” of a person’s oral health. The article stated that in addition to looking
for tooth decay, “dentists also check for mouth cancer and other ailments, which could
potentially save a person’s life.” A UK dentist provided a breakdown of how lack of dental care
could affect a person’s oral health over time, mentioning it took him 18 months to reconstruct a
patient’s teeth after years of dental neglect.
The article continues by stating that even if tooth decay is not an issue, dentists also check for
mouth cancer and other ailments, which could potentially save a person’s life, says Dr James
Goolnik, from the Bow Lane Dental Group in London.
So, what happens if you don’t visit the dentist regularly?
Six Months
Many patients at this point will be unaware that their teeth are forming cavities. These holes are
caused by tooth decay which will will get gradually more extensive over longer periods of time.
One Year
After a year with no dentist intervention means gum disease is more likely. Symptoms include
painful and bleeding gums
Two Years
After this period of time it is likely that toothaches will form and there could be painful and
expensive treatments required.
The ADA recommends people receive regular dental care at intervals their dentist determines.
MouthHealthy.org and the Oral Health Topics on ADA.org provide information on oral and
oropharyngeal cancer for patients and for dental professionals.
If you are due for a check-up give us a call at (702) 454-7695 to schedule your appointment with
us!