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://hyderdentistry.com or call Shari L. Hyder, DMD at (856) 626-5047 for an appointment in our Oaklyn office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Preventive Dentistry in Oaklyn, NJ.
A preventive dentist focuses on maintaining a patient’s oral health and preventing problems, such as sensitive teeth, from becoming more serious issues, like gum disease. This typically involves routine dental checkups, cleanings, and oral health screenings. By focusing on prevention, patients have a better chance of avoiding the need for more extensive and costly treatments…
Practicing preventive dentistry at home allows you to reap many benefits for your general health. Brushing and flossing every day is a basic way of keeping your mouth in good shape. Having healthy teeth and gums helps support your whole body’s health. If you want to find out why good everyday dental hygiene is important…
If you have not undergone a dental cleaning in over six months, it is time to go for a dental cleaning. Dental professionals recommend undergoing dental cleaning every six months to prevent oral issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Due to your schedule, you might be concerned about how long the cleaning appointment…
Getting a routine dental cleaning at least two times each year protects your teeth against tooth decay and gum disease. These routine appointments also include an examination of the patient’s mouth, looking for developing issues like poor teeth alignment.The American Dental Association recommends getting a routine dental cleaning at least two times each year. This…
If you have not undergone a dental cleaning in over six months, it is time…
Many parents often forget the need to get a kid friendly dentist when choosing a…
Getting a routine dental cleaning at least two times each year protects your teeth against…
The American Dental Association recommends that people visit the dental office once every six months…
Bad breath is a far more common issue than many people realize. Simply because someone…
Individuals who have diabetes may be at a higher risk for developing oral health concerns,…
