Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry is only real bargain. You can reduce your need for us, by taking care of problems before they become serious. Most dental disease is preventable if caught in time and taken care of. The science of the care required to prevent disease of the teeth and supporting structures. There are three levels of preventive dentistry: the use of a topical fluoride gel to prevent caries is an example of primary prevention, a dental restoration is an example of secondary prevention, and a fixed bridge is an example of tertiary prevention. Don't Forget! The American Dental Association recommends to visit your dentist every six months for a preventive check and cleaning. Infants should see a dentist at about 12 months of age. With regular dental checkups, we can detect and treat periodontal disease early. Preventive dentistry includes two aspects of dental care, both performed to help patients avoid dental disease or to catch it in its early, more treatable stages. In part, it is the oral hygiene care performed by the patient at home. Preventive dentistry also encompasses what is done by the dental staff in their offices to help patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. In either case, the objective is to stop the development of oral disease or to find it at an early stage. Dental health professionals most often look for early signs of periodontal disease, dental decay, and other changes in the soft tissue of the mouth that could lead to oral cancer. Preventive care in a dental office includes prophylaxis, or the cleaning of the teeth, which removes accumulations of calculus. It includes examination of the teeth and soft tissue, using visual and tactile exams, radiographic examination, such as x-rays, and oral cancer screening. Newer techniques to diagnose periodontal, or gum disease, include computerized measurement devices that measure the bacterial content in the mouth. Sometimes, dentists prescribe medications to help prevent dental disease. These include anti-inflammatory mouthwashes to prevent periodontal problems. Preventive procedures often performed by dentists for children include the use of fluoride supplements and applications. Dentists apply dental sealants to children's teeth, forming a barrier between tooth crevasses and bacteria to help ward off dental decay. Dental health professionals also look for malocclusions, and might refer patients to a dental specialist, such as an orthodontist, to correct a patient's bad bite. Experts state that children should be evaluated by an orthodontist by age seven. Our emphasis today is not only on correcting dental problems, but also on preventing them before they start. We will work with you to develop a preventive maintenance routine to help prevent gum disease and tooth loss. Good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings can help you maintain your teeth for a lifetime. Oral hygiene makes you feel good about yourself. It gives you fresh breath and a nice smile.