Has it been a while since your last dental visit? Many people write in saying they want to return to the dentist but feel anxious, ashamed, or unsure how to begin after a long break. If that sounds like you, here are practical, compassionate steps to make getting back to dental care easier.
When you haven’t been to the dentist for some time, the first step can feel overwhelming. These tips break the process into small, achievable actions so you can regain control of your oral health without stress.
How to Go Back to the Dentist (If You Haven’t Been in a While)
1. Floss One Tooth
This may sound trivial, but it works. Many patients laugh at the suggestion and ask, “What difference will that make?” The point isn’t perfection—it’s building momentum. Commit to flossing just one tooth each day. Within days you’ll notice that clean, tingly feeling around that spot. After a few weeks of this tiny habit, you’ll naturally start flossing more teeth because the routine feels familiar and manageable.
Flossing your entire mouth can feel intimidating after a long lapse. By narrowing the task to one tooth, you remove the pressure and make excuses harder to sustain. Small wins create confidence and pave the way to broader, lasting habits.
2. Make It Convenient
Making a new habit easy is not cheating—it’s smart. If a plan fits your life, you’re far more likely to stick with it. Choose a dentist with a location that’s convenient for you, ideally near a place you enjoy, such as a favorite café, park, or a friend’s house. Then schedule your dental appointment at the same time you’ll be going to that place. Combining something you like with the appointment makes it easier to follow through.
Reducing barriers—travel time, scheduling conflicts, or complicated booking systems—significantly increases the likelihood you’ll keep appointments and return regularly.
3. Find the Right Dentist
This is crucial. Take time to research and interview several dentists until you find one who feels like a good fit. Seek a practice that prioritizes a shame-free environment and views care as part of your overall health, not just filling cavities. A dentist who listens to your goals and explains how your oral health relates to your whole-body health will make appointments more comfortable and meaningful.
A welcoming office and staff you enjoy seeing can turn dental visits from a dreaded obligation into a routine you don’t dread. If you feel comfortable asking questions or discussing concerns, that’s a strong sign you’ve found the right provider.
If possible, consider a dentist with a therapy dog or a calm, pet-friendly environment. Therapy animals are more common than many expect, and their presence can ease anxiety. Some offices even allow well-behaved pets to accompany patients. If that’s not available, bringing a favorite photo of a pet—research shows even images of animals can boost oxytocin and reduce stress—can help you relax in the chair.
4. Make it a Game
Turning progress into a challenge or game can be highly motivating. Set a simple, measurable goal with your dental team—such as stopping gum bleeding in a specific area by focusing brushing and flossing there—and track improvements together. When you see tangible results, it reinforces the value of small daily actions and makes taking responsibility for your oral health more engaging and even fun.
Dr. Mark Burhenne
Learn More:What to Eat—And What to Avoid—to Heal Cavities Naturally