Going to the dentist is something you should be doing at least twice per year. Cleanings should be done at least once every six months for optimal dental care. If you haven't gone to the dentist in a long time for treatments that you need, you could be putting your health and maybe even your very life in danger. Here are three things that your dentist wants you to know if you are avoiding dental treatments.

Realize This: Treatments Can Be Pain-Free

Thanks to advancements in medical and dental technology, modern dental treatments can be pain-free. There are now a variety of sedation dentistry options that will suit anyone who is afraid of pain or the dental treatments themselves. You don't have to suffer to get your dental health in order. Depending on the treatment, there may be some pain after the procedure, but that can be managed with prescription and over-the-counter pain medications.

Realize This: Teeth Never Heal on Their Own

No matter which false claims alternative medicine websites may claim, no tooth has ever healed itself. That just doesn't happen. If you are putting off a root canal, you should know that the problem just won't resolve on its own.

The affected tooth and abscesses that pop up in your mouth from potential infections won't just get better when left untreated. Yes, the nerve may eventually die, but a lot of unnecessary pain is likely to be felt until that happens. What's even worse is that the infection will still be there after the nerve dies, and the infection will continue to spread. Root canals stop the infection by stopping its attack on the living pulp that's inside the affected tooth.

Realize This: Dental Treatments Are Affordable for Nearly Any Budget

If you are avoiding dental treatments because you are low on funds, your dentist wants you to understand that there are multiple options for payment. You don't have to delay treatments for your own health and well-being just because finances aren't great. You may find that your dental insurance covers treatments. Other payment options may include financing your dental care with a bank or directly with a dentist or putting your dental treatments on a low-interest credit card. Contact your dental office to see if they can work out payment arrangements that will work for you.

Finally, keep in mind that there is no need to skip those visits to the dentist's office. Your dentist has your best interests at heart and wants to help you achieve optimal dental health. Make an appointment with your dentist, and you may find that your fears are quickly put to rest as you receive the dental care treatment you need and deserve. For more information, talk to a dentist at an office such as Paul G. Isler Dental.