The Risks of Avoiding the Dentist: Why Preventive Care Matters

Understand the dangers of neglecting dental care and why preventive dentistry should be prioritized. Contact us today.

For many, visiting the dentist is an afterthought—until pain, discomfort, or serious issues arise. However, skipping regular dental visits can have serious consequences, not only for your oral health but for your overall well-being.

Contact The Dental Anesthesia Center today to schedule a comfortable, sedation-assisted dental visit and take the first step toward a healthier future.

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry

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kerubel G.

When we first visited The Dental Anesthesia Center, my child was experiencing severe tooth pain and multiple cavities. Dr. Sean M. Thoms and his team demonstrated excellent care, promptly assessing the situation and deciding to treat his teeth the next day. They came early in the morning, professionally addressing the cavities and placing a crown. They also followed up by phone to ensure my child was doing well. My baby is now pain-free,happy ,smiling, and sleeping soundly. This is truly a world-class dental center with an exceptional, caring team. Highly recommended.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words and wonderful review! We’re truly grateful for your trust and so happy to hear your experience with our team was a positive one. It means a lot to know our care helped make things a little easier and brought smiles all around.

greg E.

Carrie and the Dental Anesthesia Center have always been very professional and welcoming when having work done.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear you’ve had a positive experience with our team. We appreciate your trust and support!

Whitney S.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about The Dental Anesthesia Center and Dr. Thoms. My 7-year-old, who has autism, recently had dental work done here and the experience exceeded expectations. The staff was incredibly kind, patient, and understanding of his needs. They took the time to make him and us feel comfortable, never rushed, and explained everything. I am so grateful for this office and the team that made my son's dental care possible. I would recommend The Dental Anesthesia Center and Dr Thoms to any parent, especially those with children who have special needs. They truly go above and beyond. ❤️

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and kind words! We’re truly grateful for your trust in our team and Dr. Thoms. Knowing your visit was a positive and comfortable experience means the world to us — it’s exactly what we strive for with every patient and family. 💙

Joy H.

Very patient with elderly patients. Very good experience.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your feedback! We’re pleased to know the visit was a positive experience.

Carla B.

My son has been a patient of Dr Michael Hoffman since he was 5 years old. He is now 21 years old. My son has diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and therefore I am cautious of who I select as a treatment provider. Dr. Hoffman’s office is professional, kind and I know they have his best interest at heart. I highly recommend Dr. Hoffman and staff to anyone seeking dental care.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We truly appreciate your trust in our team over the years.

Increased Risk of Cavities and Tooth Decay

One of the most immediate consequences of avoiding the dentist is the development of cavities and tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on your teeth and, if not removed, produces acids that erode enamel and lead to decay. Even with diligent brushing and flossing, professional cleanings are necessary to remove hardened plaque (tartar) that cannot be addressed at home. (ADA)

Gum Disease Can Progress to Tooth Loss

Skipping dental checkups increases the risk of gingivitis (early-stage gum disease), which can escalate into periodontitis, a severe infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. Without treatment, periodontitis can cause tooth loss and even require surgical intervention.

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 47% of adults aged 30 and older have some form of gum disease, which rises to 70% for adults over 65. (CDC, 2023)
• Periodontitis has been linked to systemic health issues like diabetes and heart disease (more on this below).

Oral Health and Systemic Diseases

Oral health is deeply connected to overall health. Poor dental hygiene and untreated infections can contribute to or exacerbate severe medical conditions, including:

Heart Disease and Stroke

• Research shows that gum disease increases the risk of heart disease due to spreading bacteria from the mouth into the bloodstream, causing inflammation and arterial plaque buildup. (American Heart Association, 2022)

Diabetes

• People with diabetes are more prone to gum infections, and severe gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels. The American Diabetes Association recognizes periodontitis as a potential complication of diabetes. (ADA, 2023)

Respiratory Issues

• Bacteria from infected gums can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially leading to pneumonia or worsening chronic respiratory conditions like COPD. (National Institutes of Health, 2023)

More Expensive and Invasive Treatments Later

Delaying routine dental care often means that when problems arise, they are more severe and costly to fix. Consider these scenarios:

• A small cavity that could be treated with a simple filling may turn into a root canal or extraction if left untreated.
• Gum disease may require scaling and root planing or, in severe cases, surgical intervention such as gum grafting.
• Tooth loss from advanced decay or gum disease could necessitate dental implants or dentures, both expensive and time-intensive procedures.

Bad Breath and Aesthetic Issues

Neglecting dental care can lead to persistent bad breath (halitosis) caused by bacteria buildup and decay. Stained, discolored, or missing teeth can also affect self-esteem and social confidence.

Increased Risk of Oral Cancer

Regular dental checkups often include oral cancer screenings, which can detect early signs of this deadly disease. The Oral Cancer Foundation states that early detection can lead to a survival rate of up to 80-90%, while late-stage oral cancer has significantly poorer outcomes. (Oral Cancer Foundation, 2023)

Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Avoiding the dentist due to fear or anxiety (dental phobia) can create a cycle where neglected oral health leads to pain, infection, and even greater fear of treatment. Sedation dentistry can help anxious patients receive the care they need in a comfortable, stress-free environment.

Prevention is Key

Preventive dentistry—including biannual cleanings, professional exams, and early intervention—is essential to maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being. By visiting a dentist regularly, you not only prevent serious health complications but also save money, time, and stress in the long run.

Contact The Dental Anesthesia Center Today

If you’re overdue for a dental checkup, it’s never too late to prioritize your oral health. Contact The Dental Anesthesia Center today to schedule a comfortable, sedation-assisted dental visit and take the first step toward a healthier future.