What is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is dental care that is designed to protect your teeth and gums from tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Preventive dentistry involves regular dental checkups and professional cleanings to keep your mouth healthy and detect any problems before they become worse. Preventive dentistry protects the health and well-being of your mouth.
Why is preventive dental care important?
Routine dental exams benefit your oral health by reducing your risk of developing tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, periodontal disease, bone loss, and other dental problems that may also affect your overall health. Preventive dentistry also includes patient education in the practice of proper dental hygiene at home, such as brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing at least once a day.
How can I prevent cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease?
The best way to prevent future gum disease, periodontal disease, or bone loss, is by committing to a routine of oral hygiene and regular checkups, as well as professional cleanings, as soon as possible, and sticking to that routine. These routine visits provide opportunities for your dentist to monitor your oral health and catch any problems early enough to nip them in the bud.
Routine dental checkups also allow your dentist to screen for indications of deeper problems that may be lying undetected, such as oral cancer. Early detection and treatment of dental issues or any other issues affecting your oral health can end up saving you unnecessary pain and discomfort, as well as money and inconvenience down the road.
Regular cleanings also keep your teeth looking their best while eliminating dangerous plaque and tartar. This can accumulate on the surfaces of your teeth and gums and lead to disease if not treated.
What treatments does preventive dentistry include?
At O’Connor Dental Care, we believe that a clean and healthy smile is a beautiful smile. We go to great lengths to provide the highest quality in ongoing oral care, using the latest developments in dentistry, for all of our patients. Some of the treatments we offer as part of our preventive dentistry protocol include:
- Comprehensive periodontal exams
- Digital X-rays
- Fluoride dental sealants and fluoride treatments
- Oral cancer screening
- Orthodontic exam and evaluation
- Personalized oral hygiene instructions for home care
Our staff will also provide information to educate you on how to spot potential dental problems, as well as tips for maintaining oral hygiene to keep your teeth healthy between visits. Our team is here to provide answers to any questions or concerns that you may have about your dental health, oral hygiene, and treatment options.
If you are interested in learning more about protecting your smile through preventative dentistry, contact our office today.
