Preventative dentistry refers to several routine oral health care procedures. Most people are familiar with the digital X-rays and cleaning that usually occurs at each bi-annual dentist appointment. Visiting your dentist twice a year for preventative dentistry is important for maintaining healthy teeth, gums, and oral cavity.
Schedule an AppointmentWhy is it important to have professional teeth cleaning?
Professional cleanings done at the dentist will help remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, particularly from hard to reach areas along the gumline. Brushing and flossing are a great way to maintain everyday oral hygiene but keeping up with professional cleanings is necessary to keep all surfaces clean. Having your teeth cleaned every 6 months will prevent bacterial build-up that can lead to more serious conditions. Dental cleanings are typically painless unless there is an issue with a particular tooth or gum area.
Why are digital dental X-rays necessary?
Dental X-rays allow your dentist to check for signs of dental disease that are not visible above the gumline. X-rays are easily performed in the dentist office by placing a sensor in the patient’s mouth and aligning the x-ray cone to take the correctly positioned picture. Patients free from gum and dental disease may not need X-rays at every appointment while others more prone to disease may require them more frequently.
What is the purpose of a fluoride varnish?
Fluoride is a natural mineral that is routinely applied to teeth to make them stronger. Many kinds of toothpaste contain fluoride but the varnish used at the dental office is much more concentrated. Fluoride can help reverse small cavities in their early stages and can provide teeth a resistance to decay. This treatment is easily applied to tooth surfaces during a regular dental visit.
What are dental sealants and when are they used?
When dental sealants are applied to teeth they act as a protective shield against bacterial build-up that will eventually lead to cavities. Sealants are usually applied to the chewing surfaces of molars. These surfaces are rough and uneven making them the perfect location for bacteria and leftover food to stick on. Children can benefit from dental sealants even more than adults when they have their teeth sealed from the time they first erupt. Sealants are painlessly applied by first cleaning the tooth, then painting a gel coating over it, rinsing and drying the tooth, and finally hardening the seal with a special blue light.
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