The sooner you do it the easier it’s gonna be. Just bite the bullet and get it done, and schedule your 6 month follow up visit before you leave. I went more than a decade and getting back to normal - multiple deep cleanings - was rough. But once you get back to normal, just take it easy on the sugary sodas, brush twice a day, and floss or water pik more often than never and those visits are quick. I go every 6 months and it’s still just as uncomfortable, but they’re done in a couple minutes instead of 10-15.
I’ve been brushing and flossing regularly, but I haven’t been to the dentist since before COVID. Boy, am I dreading that.
When I went back to the dentist after skipping 2 years I had 9 cavities. As embarrassing as that is… I’m also trained as a dental assistant.
My unsolicited advice: Go now, it can only get worse
The sooner you do it the easier it’s gonna be. Just bite the bullet and get it done, and schedule your 6 month follow up visit before you leave. I went more than a decade and getting back to normal - multiple deep cleanings - was rough. But once you get back to normal, just take it easy on the sugary sodas, brush twice a day, and floss or water pik more often than never and those visits are quick. I go every 6 months and it’s still just as uncomfortable, but they’re done in a couple minutes instead of 10-15.
Meh, IANAD but for adults without complex dental history and good hygiene I’d argue once every three years is pretty reasonable.