Hi all,

I am 19 years old, and therefore not covered for dental care. I am on ODSP (Ontario's disability), but I'm not sure how much the dental card covers.

I have never had dental issues, never had a cavity in my life. So I thought I was immune to teeth issues. WELL, I talked to my sister yesterday, who had recently gone to the dentist. And they found 3 cavities, one of them possibly requiring a root canal! She has always had good teeth, straight and clean, so this was a surprise for her. Of course, she hadn't been to the dentist in several years (over 10, for sure). For me, it's been about 3 years.

So now I am worried. If she could have cavities, then I could have them too. =/ Is it worth paying to see the dentist to check for cavities and other stuff?

Any input is greatly appreciated.

[lynn P.]

Yes you should go every 6 months regardless if you have problems. Everyone should get their teeth professionally cleaned every 6 months. Even though I floss and brush twice a day, I still get some tartar build up. I haven't had a cavity in 20 yrs but I still go for my 6 month check up. Its worth the money and peace of mind and we also can't reach all the nooks and crannies in our mouths so make an appt for a cleaning.

[nicoleb2]

Go now! Don't wait like i do. I have horrible teeth. Right now i think i have as many cavities as I do teeth. I take care of them, but it doesn't help. I really need to get in, but am very afraid of the dentist.

[Yoda]

Agree that you should get your teeth cleaned and inspected. Hopefully that's all you'll need.

[turquoisesea]

I also agree. For me I notice the buildup. 6 months is a good amount of time for me , no less. but I"m also on insurance and my parents cover it for now at least.

Plus, if you DO get a cavity as a result of not going to the dentist is is VERY VERY expensive. My boyfriend neglected dentist for 2 years, and didn't brush well at all. Surprise!! he chipped a tooth and went to the dentist. Where he found he needed a huge number of fillings, because of all the cavities. thousands of dollars later and several months later (you can't get them all filled at once), he's looking at his last appointment. He hasn't been able to save money because all his savings has been going to the dentist.

So, thousands of dollars for cavities later down the road? Or less money + your actual teeth and get to the dentist more often. =) that's my view anyway.