Can You Skip the Dentist? Why Regular Dental Checkups Matter
In the chaos of daily life, it is easy to skip routine dental appointments, especially when your teeth seem to be in good shape. However, postponing regular dental visits can allow oral health problems to develop unnoticed, leading to issues that may require more extensive treatment later.
Elyse Dengler, D.M.D., a general dentistry expert with UAB Dentistry, says patients should think twice before skipping a dental checkup.
“The obvious reason to go to the dentist is so that we can check the teeth, but we also identify and fix problems,” Dengler said. “If left untreated, dental issues can get very serious.”
Why regular dental cleanings are important
Dentists typically recommend dental cleanings and examinations every six months.
When patients skip routine visits, they miss the opportunity to remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be eliminated through brushing and flossing alone. Professional cleanings help protect teeth and gums while allowing providers to identify concerns before they become larger problems.
Regular visits also provide peace of mind that your oral health is on track.
Preventing costly dental problems
One of the biggest benefits of preventive dental care is catching issues early.
“In the United States, adults lose an estimated 243 million hours of work or school each year due to dental issues,” Dengler said.
Regular dental visits can help identify cavities, gum disease, and other concerns before they require more involved and costly treatment. Prevention is often far less expensive and less invasive than treatment after a condition has progressed.
The connection between oral health and overall health
Oral health does not exist in isolation.
“Oral health is connected to overall health. There are many diseases that are influenced by the mouth, and vice versa,” Dengler said.
Research continues to demonstrate relationships between oral health and a variety of health conditions, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease, osteoporosis, sleep disorders, and cognitive conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental visits can play an important role in supporting overall wellness.
Dental visits can identify hidden problems
Routine examinations provide an opportunity to identify issues that patients may not notice on their own.
“Sometimes we find undiagnosed conditions. For example, your dentist will do an oral cancer screening to check for abnormalities in the mouth, neck, and throat,” Dengler said. “If something abnormal is found, your provider will recommend further testing or refer you to a specialist.”
Early detection can improve outcomes and may help patients address potential concerns before they become more serious.
Don't wait until something hurts
Many dental problems develop gradually and may not cause pain until they become advanced.
Scheduling routine dental visits allows providers to monitor your oral health, address concerns early, and help prevent future complications.
If it has been a while since your last dental checkup, now may be a good time to schedule a cleaning and examination to help keep your smile healthy and identify potential problems before they worsen.
About the UAB Dentistry Comprehensive Care Clinic
Most new adult patients begin their journey at UAB Dentistry Comprehensive Care. Our team provides comprehensive dental services, including preventive, restorative, and prosthetic care, in a supervised educational setting. Patients benefit from personalized treatment planning, continuity of care, and faculty oversight throughout treatment while helping prepare the next generation of dental professionals.
Book an Appointment: (205)934-2700
Article Attributes
Written by: Kaitlin Davis
Medically Reviewed by: Elyse Dengler, D.M.D.