I remember going to the dentist every six months when I was a kid. My mom was very diligent about taking my brother and me. I always loved going and I always had to go first. I’d be so happy to report to my mom and of course brag to my brother that I had no cavities. My mom also made sure that we brushed our teeth at least twice each day. When I was older the dentist suggested that I see an orthodontist because my eyeteeth were impacted. So, I saw the orthodontist who showed us what was recommended and said that I needed to see an oral surgeon to have surgery to bring my eyeteeth in. I saw the oral surgeon, had the surgery and then continued treatment with my orthodontist and my general dentist as well for my regular checkups and cleanings.
I thought about how cool it would be to work in a dentist’s office when I got older. I loved the idea of being a part of helping people have nice smiles. So, after I got married and had my girls I decided to go to dental assisting school. I finished the course and got my first job as a dental assistant. I later took the state tests and got my RDA license. I am still a dental assistant and love it. I love meeting new people and being a part of helping them. I also try and stress to people the importance of going to the dentist and if someone has a toothache or question about their teeth I always try and offer advice. I am trying to teach my girls the importance of seeing the dentist regularly and I have always taken them twice a year for their regular checkups and cleanings. They both have braces now and I made sure to start that while they were young because more can be done while the jaws are still growing.
I think because I grew up going to the dentist regularly I have kept it up and have now gotten my kids to do the same. It is important for everyone to see their dentist regularly and to teach their children to do the same.
Sometimes I hear people say that they can’t afford to go to the dentist but I explain to them that when you go every six months you catch any problems as they are starting and are small. When you wait and don’t go then you only cause more problems and then more work is needed. So, it’s really less expensive to go twice a year for checkup and cleanings than to not go and then need a root canal, post and crown because you let decay sit in your tooth so long that it got into the nerve. Bottom line is that it’s important for your oral health and overall health as gum disease can lead to heart problems.
If you have any questions please call 661-253-3030 and ask for Michelle or Dr. Kim.