Preventive and Maintenance Care
Dentistry is founded on the principle of prevention. All patients are recommended biannual cleanings and examinations. Not only do they help you quash dental problems before they arise, they leave your gums healthier, and your teeth cleaner and whiter. A professional cleaning removes hard plaque that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. It also involves a fluoride treatment and polish to help protect and soothe your teeth and gums. Even if you haven’t had a cleaning in over two years, it’s never too late to treat your teeth.
What are some preventative measures I can take?
Brush with a fluoride toothpaste
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush after each meal
Floss daily before bedtime
Use an oral rinse after flossing
Avoid sugary foods, coffee, and tobacco
- Dental examination: It is important to have regular dental examinations so problems can be caught early. Not all dental problems have obvious symptoms. Sometimes, by the time the patient realizes there is a problem, it may be too late. Periodontal disease is a common example.
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) examination: Many people do not realize that they grind or clench their teeth during sleep. This can potentially damage the TMJ and teeth. In certain situations, a night guard should be worn during sleep to help reduce the risk of damage.
- Oral cancer screening: Identifying cancer early can significantly improve recovery and outcome. Examples of key areas include under the tongue and the floor of the mouth.
- Digital radiography: Digital radiography generally gives 70% less exposure to radiation than conventional x-rays with films. We also use aprons and thyroid guards to further reduce exposure.
- Cleaning (scaling, root planing, polishing): Regular dental cleanings are vital in fighting periodontal disease. Calculus are hard deposits that form on teeth over time. They cannot be removed with brushing and flossing, but require scaling and root planing by your dentist or dental hygienist. If calculus is not removed, persistent gingival inflammation may progress to irreversible bone loss (periodontal disease). Generally, it is recommended to have cleanings every 6 months for people without periodontal disease. For those that do have periodontal disease, the frequency may be every 3 to 4 months. Polishing is used to remove stains.
- Fluoride treatment: This is helpful in reducing the risk for tooth decay.
- Sealants: Permanent molars, and sometimes permanent premolars, have fissures on the biting surfaces that are more susceptible to decay. When these teeth erupt, sealants may be placed to cover the fissures and help protect against decay.