Preventive dental care is essential for long term oral health. Yet it is the most overlooked part of dentistry. Many people don’t go to the dentist until something is wrong, like a toothache or a cracked tooth. But by then the damage is already done, and your dentist can only attempt to repair it. In some cases it will be too late to save the tooth.
But with regular dental visits and a daily oral hygiene routine, you can prevent many dental problems from ever happening. The ultimate goal is to keep your natural teeth healthy and in place for your lifetime. With the right care and effort you can avoid restorative procedures like dentures and dental implants.
What Is Preventive Dental Care?
Preventive dental care refers to the general dentistry services and procedures that are designed to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
- Teeth cleanings. Regular dental cleanings are designed to remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the visible surface of the teeth before it can cause cavities or gum disease. If needed, a deep cleaning may be recommended to reach under the gumline.
- Comprehensive oral exams. A thorough examination of the mouth, jaw, throat, and neck identifies any oral health concerns, such as gum disease or signs of oral cancer. Digital X-rays are a regular part of oral exams to detect cavities or other issues that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
- Fluoride treatments. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel. It is found in anti-cavity toothpaste and mouthwash, and it is added to public water sources. Professional fluoride treatments contain a higher concentration of fluoride that can help prevent cavities by fortifying your teeth.
- Custom night and mouth guards. In order to prevent damage to your teeth from injuries and teeth grinding, custom night guards and sports mouthguards can be made for you by your dentist that fit more comfortably and offer enhanced protection over store bought products.
The Benefits of Preventive Dental Care for Your Overall Health
Preventive dental care does more than just improve your oral health. It also has a positive impact on your total health and well-being. Tooth decay and gum disease have been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
When bacteria from your mouth become overpopulated it is common for the gum tissue to become infected, resulting in gum disease. When gum disease progresses without treatment the infection can enter your bloodstream and spread to other parts of your body, affecting various organs and bodily systems.
Preventive dentistry, as well as early detection and intervention, can reduce your dental care costs as well as your healthcare costs in general. You’ll also feel better and enjoy a better quality of life.
Daily Habits That Support Preventive Dental Care
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for at least 2 minutes at a time.
- Consider getting an electric toothbrush.
- Floss your teeth once a day. Be sure to curve the floss around each tooth to reach the pocket between the teeth and gums.
- Eat a balanced diet high in crunchy fruits and vegetables.
- Limit sugary foods and beverages.
- Rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash once a day.
Partnering With Dentistry With a Smile for Lifelong Oral Health
Preventive dentistry should be a team effort between you and your dentist. Through daily oral hygiene practices and routine dental visits, you can enjoy better oral health and overall wellness. At Dentistry With a Smile our patient-centered approach allows us to deliver personalized care to patients in Livingston, NJ and the surrounding area in a comfortable and relaxing environment. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dentistry
How often should I visit the dentist for preventive care?
The recommended schedule for the average patient is every 6 months for preventive visits. For patients with an increased risk or who are prone to tooth decay and gum disease, more frequent visits may be advised.
Are preventive dental services covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive dentistry visits twice a year. Dental cleanings and oral exams are typically included, as well as dental X-rays and fluoride treatments. Refer to your insurance provider for specific details about your coverage.
At Dentistry With a Smile, we are committed to helping our patients maintain healthy smiles through comprehensive preventive care. We focus on patient comfort at every visit, creating a welcoming environment for individuals and families throughout our New Jersey community. Our goal is to build lasting relationships while providing the guidance and support needed for lifelong oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.