4 Reasons for Preventive Dentistry
Often, we ignore or take the idea of proper dental care and hygiene lightly, only to worry when the trouble kicks in. With the increased risk of developing dental problems, there’s a need to put in proper dental measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones from avoidable dental issues. That’s where preventive dentistry comes in.
Contact the office of Dr. Barry J. Cunha to schedule an appointment for preventive dental care.
What Is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry focuses on actively caring for your oral structures to keep them healthy and strong. It incorporates at-home oral hygiene practices such as brushing and regular visits to your dentist for professional examination and cleaning.
As simple as preventive dentistry may seem, it could be the difference between keeping your teeth and losing them. For instance, poor dental care increases the risk of developing severe dental problems such as tooth decay and periodontitis, which could lead to teeth extraction. If possible, preventive dental care should be embraced at a young age for maximum oral health.
What Services Are Available Within Preventive Dentistry?
Our dental office offers a comprehensive array of preventive dental services, such as:
- Oral exams
- X-rays
- Teeth cleaning
- Dental sealants
- Regular oral exam every six months
- Fluoride treatments
Why Preventive Dental Care Is Important
- Promotes Oral and Overall Health
A General Dentist’s main objective is to enhance your oral health. By maintaining proper oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing regularly, you’ll be promoting good oral health.
But even with a thorough cleaning, cleaning your back teeth to perfection is unlikely. Regular professional cleanings will get rid of any bacteria, debris, and food particles that have been trapped in those teeth. In addition, your dentist can clean the gums and other oral structures.
With proper dental care and regular professional cleanings, you can be assured of optimal oral health. Even better, good oral health also promotes good overall body health.
- Prevents Dental Problems
By promoting your oral health with proper care and professional cleanings, you’ll be reducing the chances or risks of developing dental problems associated with poor oral hygiene.
For instance, plaque build-up and bacteria growth in your teeth can expose you to serious dental problems such as tooth decay, infections, and gum disease.
- Early Detection and Treatment of Dental Problems
During dental exams, your dentist is likely to detect or notice any changes or problems with your oral structures. If necessary, they can test or screen you for dental diseases.
If any problem is detected, it will be treated immediately, preventing it from progressing to a severe condition. For instance, if gum disease isn’t treated timely, it can develop into a more serious condition, known as periodontitis.
Even complex dental conditions such as oral cancer can be treated if detected early enough. It’s highly unlikely that a dentist will miss an early symptom of an oral problem such as oral cancer during oral exams and X-rays.
- Saves you Money
For people with healthy teeth and gums, visiting the dentist may not seem important. While you may not see the need to see your dentist regularly for regular cleanings and exams, it could save you from expensive dental procedures in the future.
Certain dental conditions, such as oral cancer, are not only expensive but also life-threatening. Cosmetic procedures like dental implants and bridges could also cost you a lot.
Regular dentist appointments can help you maintain good oral health and save you money down the road.
Preventive Dental Oral Care Tips
Below are some preventive dental care tips:
- Avoid smoking and drugs.
- Brush properly, at least twice a day.
- Floss daily.
- Eat healthier. Minerals and vitamins are great for your oral health. If possible, avoid or limit your intake of sugary snacks and beverages.
- Use fluoridated toothpaste.
- Stay hydrated.
- Schedule regular visits to the dentist twice a year or more if you have a dental problem.
Final Verdict
With preventive dentistry, you can achieve and maintain healthy and strong oral structures. If you’re interested in any preventive dentistry procedures, contact the office of Dr. Barry J. Cunha today to schedule your appointment.