Protect Your Smile With the Help of a Preventive Dentist

A preventive dentist is a dental health professional whose services include procedures to protect the teeth and gums from developing problems. This dentist aims to keep your teeth healthy and appealing for the longest possible time.

Services performed by a preventive dentist

Major dental disorders are avoidable with preventive dental treatment. Preventing future problems and stress from oral health issues early could also reduce the number of dental appointments needed and save money and time later on. It might even prevent the need for more invasive treatments.

The following are some services commonly performed by a preventive dentist:

Regular dental checkups

It is important to visit the dentist regularly. These appointments allow the dentist to spot any problems present in the oral cavity. Detecting a problem early allows treatment to begin before the issue worsens significantly. This could save the patient time and money as time passes by avoiding expensive dental work.

Patients who visit the dentist regularly for preventive treatment are more likely to avert major issues like gum disease, oral cancer, and jaw joint problems. Detecting a condition early will make treatment easier and more manageable. For example, getting an early diagnosis of periodontitis prevents complications like gum and tooth loss.

The dentist will also examine the state of the gums and any completed dental work. The dentist will measure the depth of pockets around the patient's tooth using a periodontal probe. If the depths are deeper than three millimeters, then intervention is necessary. This depth places the patient at a greater risk for gum infection.

Dental cleaning

Preventive dentistry also includes routine dental cleanings. Establishing such a routine can protect a patient's dental health. Most plaque can be eliminated with daily flossing and brushing. However, uncleaned plaque eventually hardens into tartar, which is harder to remove. Dentists use a device called a scaler to remove tartar. They may recommend a more regular cleaning schedule for good dental hygiene.

During a professional dental cleaning, the dental professional uses a high-power electric toothbrush. This helps keep the gums healthy and the teeth clean. The electric toothbrush, used with gritty toothpaste removes plaque and remaining tartar after scaling.

Fluoride applications

The goal of preventive dentistry is also to strengthen teeth. Dentists achieve this goal by using fluoride treatments. These treatments are not intended to replace regular oral hygiene routines. Nevertheless, they can help prevent tooth decay and keep them healthy. In-office fluoride treatments are stronger and more concentrated compared to the fluoride in over-the-counter toothpaste or tap water.

Oral cancer screenings

Screenings for serious illnesses are also part of preventive dentist services. Oral cancer is a serious disease. It begins in the oral cavity. If not detected and treated promptly, this illness can impact the rest of the body. Patients should undergo oral cancer screening at least once annually. The approach ensures early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of cancers. This increases the patient's survival chances for the condition.

Advantages of preventive dentistry

Routine dental check-ups and cleanings can identify potential oral health problems early, often before they become painful or worsen. Identifying dental problems early on saves time and money, along with pain and inconvenience.

With preventive dentistry, gum disease, cavities, and other dental health issues might be prevented. Proper oral hygiene habits and regular visits to the dental office can keep the teeth and gums healthy and in great condition.

Preserving the original teeth is important for a strong, functional, and attractive smile. By scheduling regular dental visits, patients can avoid serious dental problems that may require extractions or more complex restorative procedures. One’s oral health impacts their overall health. Poor dental health is linked to other health problems including heart disease. Preventive dentistry can improve one’s health and preserve the smile.

The bottom line

Taking care of your oral health frequently will help you save money and time by limiting the risks of some other health problems arising. Although preventive dentistry does not eliminate the need for tooth implants, fillings, or root canals entirely, it may decrease the chances of needing to undergo these expensive procedures.

You can visit a preventive dentist to protect your oral and overall health at the same time. You should complement your at-home oral hygiene efforts with regular dental visits, cleanings, and screenings. This approach makes preventive dentistry becomes more effective. If you have not visited the dentist in a while, it is time to book an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.missionfamilydentalslo.com or call Mission Family Dental at (805) 205-9278 for an appointment in our San Luis Obispo office.

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