Maintain Your Smile with Prevention

Preventive dental care is key to maintaining a beautiful and healthy smile! In addition to daily brushing and flossing, regular professional cleanings and checkups can help you avoid expensive treatments down the road. Routine visits allow us to monitor your oral health and ensure your smile stays in great shape.

What to expect at your preventive dental care appointment

Thorough Cleaning
Your dental hygienist will provide a comprehensive cleaning, removing plaque and tartar buildup. This process includes flossing and using tools like water or an ultrasonic cleaner to clear plaque from under the gum line. Your teeth will feel polished and refreshed.
Necessary X-Rays
Depending on the time elapsed since your last x-rays, your dentist may recommend new images. X-rays are essential for detecting issues not visible to the naked eye, such as cavities, infections, or cracks in the tooth enamel, allowing for appropriate recommendations and treatment.
Comprehensive Exam
After reviewing your x-rays, your dentist will closely examine your gums and teeth. They will discuss any potential issues and provide detailed information to help you make informed decisions about your oral health. Our goal is to ensure you are fully informed and confident in your treatment choices.

Preventive Treatment Options

Cleaning & Hygiene: Regular teeth cleanings are vital for a healthy smile. Schedule an appointment every six months to remove stains, plaque, and bacteria. Complement this with daily brushing using fluoride toothpaste and flossing to maintain oral health.
Digital X-Rays: Digital x-rays offer quick, high-resolution images with minimal radiation. Typically taken once or twice a year, they help diagnose issues and manage emergencies.
Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride treatments strengthen teeth and prevent decay. After cleaning, a fluoride varnish or gel is applied to enhance enamel protection.
Dental Sealants: Sealants, ideal for both children and adults, protect teeth from cavities by applying a resin to the grooves of back teeth, forming a barrier against decay.
Periodontal Care: For gum disease, regular checkups and deep cleanings are crucial. Advanced cases may require more frequent visits to prevent progression and tooth loss.
Oral Cancer Screenings: Routine screenings are essential for early detection of oral cancer. Your dentist will check for abnormalities and, if needed, perform a biopsy.
Night Guards: Custom night guards protect teeth from grinding and clenching during sleep, reducing jaw tension and preventing damage.
Sports Guards: Custom sports guards protect teeth during high-impact activities, preventing injury from accidents and collisions. Ideal for athletes in contact sports.

Preventive Dental Care FAQ

Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time to maintain a healthy smile. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular strokes to clean the front, back, and chewing surfaces of each tooth. Spend about 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth. Remember to replace your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every 3-4 months and use fluoride toothpaste approved by the ADA to prevent cavities.

Prophylactic Cleanings: Regular dental appointments every 6 months are crucial for preventing cavities and bad breath. During these visits, your dentist or hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria, and thoroughly floss your teeth to keep your smile clean and free of debris.

Periodontal Cleanings: Also known as "deep cleanings," these are essential for patients with periodontal disease. The procedure involves carefully removing plaque and tartar from between your teeth and gums and smoothing the tooth roots to eliminate bacteria-trapping pockets. These cleanings are an important part of managing gum disease and maintaining oral health.

Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care, including cleanings, exams, and x-rays, often fully. If not fully covered, these services are usually at least partially covered. Some plans may also include optional treatments like dental sealants and fluoride for children. To understand your coverage and maximize your benefits, consult with your insurance provider and contact our office for assistance.