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Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dental care is one of the most important services that any dentist can provide. By regularly seeing patients, cleaning their teeth, and ensuring that they are caring for their teeth appropriately, dentists like Dr. Christopher Green of Green Dental Care can prevent common issues like cavities, gingivitis, and tooth infections.
What is Preventative Dentistry
While other forms of dentistry primarily focus on treating common dental issues, preventive dentistry is different. It focuses on maintaining the integrity and health of the natural teeth before problems have a chance to occur. This allows patients to save quite a bit of time and money, and ensures that their oral health is protected.
The Benefits Of Preventive Dentistry
Save money and time with regular teeth cleaning and oral exams. When you avoid regular teeth cleanings, you could end up with a condition like a cavity, infected tooth, or gum disease. These issues are much more difficult (and costly).
The health of your mouth is closely related to the health of the rest of your body. Conditions such as periodontitis and tooth decay are associated with a higher risk of issues like heart attack and stroke, respiratory disease, and even cancer.
Without regular teeth cleanings, issues such as stained teeth and bad breath are quite common if you neglect your oral health. In turn, these problems can make you feel self-conscious about your smile. Professional cleanings go a long way in keeping your smile healthy and beautiful.
Common Preventive Dentistry Treatments
Oral exams & teeth cleanings – A regular, six-month oral exam and teeth cleaning are the first line of defense against almost every oral health problem, from tooth decay and infections to periodontitis.
Deep cleaning – Deep cleanings may be required if you are at risk of developing gum disease (periodontitis). Using specialized tools, Dr. Green will remove the plaque and tartar that cause gum disease.
Fluoride treatments – Fluoride treatments can help reverse minor cases of tooth decay. Fluoride remineralizes the tooth enamel, preventing damage from the acids and bacteria that cause cavities.
Dental sealants – Dental sealants are a thin layer of protective plastic that covers teeth that are at risk of developing cavities. They are often recommended for children and teenagers that do not yet show signs of decay.
Teeth Cleanings And Oral Exams
Teeth cleanings and oral exams are a critical part of preventive dentistry at Green Dental Care. We recommend that you have a teeth cleaning and oral exam every six months to ensure that your smile is as healthy as possible.
During routine appointments, one of our dental hygienists will examine your mouth to identify any areas of concern, which Dr. Green may wish to examine in further detail. Then, they will professional-grade tools to clean, buff, and polish your teeth.
Dr. Green will perform a comprehensive oral exam and evaluation. X-rays may be recommended every 12 months, or if you’re a new patient. This helps us detect any early signs of oral cancer, gum disease, tooth decay, and other common dental health issues. With regular, six-month oral exams and teeth cleanings, you can ensure that your mouth remains healthy, and prevent the development of common oral health issues like cavities and gingivitis.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a great way to fight back against cavities. Sealants consist of a liquid-based plastic resin, which is applied to your rear molars after your teeth cleaning. This liquid hardens into a plastic barrier that prevents oral bacteria, acid, and sugar from directly contacting your teeth and forming cavities. When properly applied, sealants can last up to 10 years or longer.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments consist of a highly-concentrated gel or liquid that is painted onto your teeth in order to help remineralize “soft spots” where your enamel has become weak due to minor tooth decay. Fluoride helps strengthen your enamel and can prevent these soft spots from turning into cavities, which may require restorative treatment like a filling or crown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really have to see the dentist every six months?
Yes! This is the interval recommended by the ADA, and coming to Green Dental Care every six months ensures that you get the preventive care you need on a regular basis to avoid issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Will my dental insurance cover teeth cleanings and exams?
Yes. In most cases, dental plans will cover the full cost of teeth cleanings and exams, and insurance usually covers at least one set of x-rays per year. For more information, and to confirm coverage, check with your insurer
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
The ADA recommends that children see the dentist every six months, starting when their first tooth erupts or when they turn one year old, whichever comes first.
What’s the best way to care for my teeth?
Brush at least twice per day for two minutes, using the proper brushing technique. Floss once per day to remove food from in-between your teeth and gums. Avoid consuming sugary drinks like soda and juice, and eat a diet high in fiber, and low in sugar and simple carbohydrates.