The goal of preventive dentistry is to keep teeth and gums clean and healthy in order to reduce the risk of cavities and other oral health concerns developing. It is a good idea to have a full understanding of how preventive dentistry can protect your smile and what services a dentist may recommend for cavity prevention.
General dentists typically offer a range of dental services, including diagnostics, preventive dentistry, and restorative care. However, the long-term focus is on cavity prevention, along with the prevention of other common oral health concerns such as gum disease, oral infections, and dental trauma.
Preventive dentistry refers to the dental services that are performed to prevent oral health concerns, rather than treat issues that have already developed. This includes regular dental cleaning and check-up visits to detect any signs of a concern as early as possible, and to help prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar on the surface of teeth and along the gum line, which are common indicators that suggest cavities, gum disease, and other issues are more likely. Providing educational services to help patients protect their teeth between dental visits is also an important aspect of preventive dentistry.
Cavity prevention is one of the main focuses of preventive dentistry. During each check-up visit, the dentist checks for any early signs of enamel decay. This includes discoloration of the tooth and a build-up of plaque and tartar. If the dentist detects any concerns, then they may provide a special fluoride treatment to strengthen the weakened enamel and reduce the risk of cavity formation. For some patients that are particularly vulnerable to cavities on the chewing surface of molars and premolars (especially children), the dentist may recommend dental sealants.
Many patients who take care of their smile between dental visits (see below) only need a check-up and cleaning visit every four to six months to prevent cavities. More frequent visits may be necessary for patients that have a higher risk of developing cavities.
Preventive dentistry is important for cavity prevention. However, the majority of the work should take place at home between visits. The dentist can help the patient establish a consistent and quality oral care routine that can help prevent cavities. This should include brushing, flossing, and using a fluoride mouthwash as recommended. Certain foods and drinks (such as those high in sugar) should be limited as well to protect the enamel from acidic attacks and decay.
One of the primary goals here at our dental practice is to prevent oral health concerns before they are able to develop. We offer a range of diagnostic and preventive services, in addition to restorative care when oral health concerns do occur. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.selmasunshinedental.com or call Selma Sunshine Dental at (559) 257-4080 for an appointment in our Selma office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Preventive Dentistry in Selma, CA.
Seeing a preventive dentist is a vital part of your oral healthcare routine each year. However, many people skip this essential step because they do not want to spend time at a dental office. Fortunately, a preventive dentist provides many valuable services that can help your smile last a lifetime and stop future issues before…
Practicing preventive dentistry strategies can help you avoid serious dental problems. It can support your personal goals in keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Prevention is always better than going through treatments for serious dental problems. If you want to know how preventive dentistry can avoid the development of a serious oral problem, here are…
Going to the dental office regularly likely means that the teeth will be cleaned on a routine basis, however, this does not mean that a deep teeth cleaning will be done. A deep teeth cleaning is actually different than the routine one that is done at a check-up. Many patients initially believe that a deep…
A dental cleaning is an essential part of general dentistry care for individuals of all ages, including toddlers. Many parents are under the impression that toddlers do not need a dental cleaning because their teeth will eventually fall out, but this is far from true.Dental cleanings should be undergone on a regular basis, no matter…
A smile makeover is a combination of treatments performed primarily to improve the aesthetics of…
Visiting a new dental office is a great way to take charge of your oral…
Seeing a preventive dentist is a vital part of your oral healthcare routine each year.
Dental crowns, or tooth caps, are a common dental restoration for fixing broken, cracked, or…
A general dentist has many options to choose from when it comes to treating cavities.…
A full mouth reconstruction offers you the chance to enjoy good health and the appearance…
