Updated in September of 2025
If you haven’t been to the dentist in 10 years (or even longer), you’re not alone — and you’re definitely not beyond help. At Harlow Dental, we understand that life gets busy and dental visits often fall to the bottom of the list. Maybe you’ve avoided the dentist because of anxiety, cost, or embarrassment. Whatever the reason, it’s never too late to take charge of your oral health.
Whether it’s been five, ten, or fifteen years since your last checkup, our welcoming team is here to help you feel comfortable, cared for, and confident about getting back on track.
What Happens If You Haven't Been to the Dentist in 10 Years
1. Gum Disease Can Develop — and Progress
Without regular cleanings and exams, plaque and tartar can build up below the gumline, leading to gum disease. Early stages (gingivitis) cause redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, causing gum recession, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
How we help: Our team uses professional deep cleaning techniques like scaling and root planing to remove buildup and stop the disease from progressing. With regular care, we can restore your gum health and protect your smile.
2. Cavities Can Worsen Over Time
Plaque that isn’t removed hardens into tartar, which leads to tooth decay. Cavities that start small can grow larger and deeper, eventually reaching the tooth’s nerve and causing significant pain or infection.
How we help: We restore your teeth with fillings, crowns, or other restorative treatments to stop decay and protect against future problems. Early intervention can save you from more complex (and expensive) treatments down the road.
3. Infections and Tooth Loss Become More Likely
Untreated cavities or gum disease can lead to tooth infections (abscesses), which are painful and potentially dangerous if bacteria spread. In severe cases, infections can require a root canal or even tooth extraction.
How we help: Our dentists in Charlotte provide prompt treatment to eliminate infection and restore your oral health. We also offer solutions like dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures to replace missing teeth and rebuild your smile.
What to Expect at Your First Visit Back
If you’re nervous about coming in after a long time, knowing what to expect can help ease your mind. Here’s what your first appointment typically includes:
- Comprehensive exam: We’ll examine your teeth, gums, and mouth to check for cavities, gum disease, infection, and other concerns.
- Digital X-rays: These help us see what’s happening below the surface, including bone health and tooth roots.
- Professional cleaning: We’ll gently remove plaque and tartar buildup and polish your teeth to leave them clean and refreshed.
- Personalized treatment plan: If we find any issues, we’ll discuss them openly and outline clear, step-by-step solutions — no judgment, no pressure.
Your Smile Deserves a Fresh Start And We're Here to Help
Ready to get your dental health back on track? Contact us at Harlow Dental to schedule your next exam. We also offer financing options to ensure that nothing stands in the way of getting the smile you deserve. We welcome patients of all ages to our dental offices in Uptown, Eastway, and Steele Creek.
We invite you to reach out today to get started!