Guess what today is? That’s right – it’s National Dentist Day, a holiday established to show appreciation and say thank you to all of the dentists out there. Many people don’t like visiting the dentist, but without them most of us would probably have unhealthy teeth and gums. We should all take the time today to appreciate the wonderful dentists in our lives, so here are five reasons to thank them:

  1. DENTISTS PREVENT DISEASE
    Dentists can help prevent dental disease or detect it in time to stop it. Dental professionals are trained to detect early signs of dental disease, such as gum disease, tooth decay and oral cancer. Dental problems can lead to additional health problems in the future. So, if you really think about it, your dentist can essentially prolong your life in a unique way.
  2. DENTISTS KEEP YOUR SMILE WHITE
    Dentists can whiten your teeth in matter of minutes. In a single 60 minute visit to their office, your dentist can transform your smile. Your teeth can literally brighten 10 shades! There are other methods of whitening your teeth but none are as quick or effective.
  3. DENTISTS ENCOURAGE GOOD ORAL HYGIENE
    Dentists can help encourage your children to practice good oral health at a young age. Your child should have their first dental visit by age one, or six months after their first tooth erupts. At the visit, your dentist will give you oral health information and will help your child get used to future dental appointments. There is no better way to instill the importance of oral health to children and their parents.
  4. DENTISTS KEEP YOU OUT OF PAIN
    Not only do dentists relieve the pain of a toothache, they are extremely skilled at preventing pain during dental procedures. Many dentists also incorporate relaxation techniques, such as aromatherapy, in the exam rooms.
  5. DENTISTS HELP IMPROVE CONFIDENCE
    When you have misaligned, discolored, cracked or broken teeth it can make you feel uncomfortable to smile in public. Your dentist can help improve the aesthetics of your smile which, in turn, can boost your self-confidence.

As you can see, dentists do more than just keep our smile pretty. Today, on National Dentist Day, be sure to tell your dentist thanks today for their dedication and hard work.