Preventive Dental Care
Most of us know the significance of brushing and flossing twice daily. Doctors recommend dental checkups twice a year in addition to maintaining good oral hygiene. These preventive measures help to improve oral health and improve the quality of life.
Preventive dentistry is a dental treatment that aims to protect the teeth from common dental problems. It involves routine dental checkups, cleaning, and fluoride treatment.
Preventive dentistry services may include:
Regular oral exams
Routine visits allow your dentist to recognize and treat the early onset of cavities, gingivitis, and other problems. Early detection prevents expensive dental problems eventually.
Teeth cleaning
The main aim of teeth cleaning is to remove the build-up of plaque and tartar that occurs over time. Bacteria will increase and lead to gum disease and cavities.
Regular cleaning treatments will prevent plaque and bacteria from building up and weakening the enamel. Your teeth will look great and feel healthier.
The procedure involves scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatment. Teeth cleaning removes stains caused by drinks like tea, coffee, and smoking.
Routine Dental X-rays
Dental x-rays (Intraoral periapical Radiographs) help to detect decay, gingivitis, abscessed wisdom teeth, and other dental conditions that are not always immediately visible. Your dentist will suggest preventive measures and treatments as needed.
Regular dental exams provide the following benefits to your oral health:
- It lowers your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious dental problems.
- It helps to promote good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing twice daily.
- The early identification of dental problems may help minimize treatment and cost.
- Enable your dentist to do a complete examination of your mouth, jaw, neck, etc. to identify any related problems.
- It helps to reduce dental problems related to some chronic medical issues. Diabetes, osteoporosis, some cancers, and eating disorders can impact oral and dental health. For people with severe ailments, regular preventive dental care is an essential part of overall health.
Your role in Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dental care begins with you. Adopting healthy dental habits early in life can help prevent cavities and gum disease. Here are the basics of good oral health:
- Brush your teeth gently at least twice daily, usually morning and night with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Your dentist can suggest the best toothbrush and toothpaste for you. They can also instruct you on how to brush your teeth correctly.
- Floss every day to get food or particles that are stuck between teeth and to prevent plaque formation.
- Use a good mouthwash to rinse out food particles after flossing.
- Avoid acidic foods and sugary drinks, which can harm the tooth enamel.
- Be careful with hard foods, like candies, foods with bones, seeds, or pits that could crack or chip teeth.
- Avoid smoking or use tobacco products as they may lead to cancer and other dental problems.
- Use a mouthguard when participating in some sports.
Preventive dentistry is beneficial to all people regardless of age. Taking good care of your teeth begins early in childhood and continues throughout your life.
