Preventive Dentistry
We care for your smile at every age with preventive dentistry. Our approach includes regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and thorough dental exams. We offer guidance on proper oral hygiene and use techniques like periodontal cleanings and scaling to keep your gums healthy, reducing tooth decay and dental visits for healthy smiles and general wellbeing.
Treatments
Hygiene
Sealants
Occlusal guard
Dental Cleanings
Oral hygiene is the most important part of maintaining a healthy smile and preventing future dental problems. Hygiene is a team effort in which your dental hygienist, your dentist and (most importantly) you, participate together.
In addition to receiving a dental cleaning twice a year by your hygienist, we recommend recommend brushing your teeth twice daily and floss once daily.
This video shows what to expect during your dental cleaning visit.
During your initial visit, we will evaluate your gum tissues to determine what kind of treatment you need. This examination also happens at every dental cleaning appointment once you are a patient of Dental Care on Golf Links. We call these visits “recare visits“, and they include a dental cleaning by your hygienist, and an examination of your teeth and gums by your dentist. Sometimes, new x-rays and a fluoride treatment may be complete your visit.
Gingival probing helps evaluate your gum tissues and determine what treatment, if any, is needed to restore them to proper health.
Prophylaxis (cleaning) is indicated when gingivitis is present. When deep pockets and periodontal disease are found during the examination of your gum tissues, a procedure called scaling and root planing is often recommended. This procedure is also commonly referred to as a “deep cleaning”.
Sealants
Many teeth, especially back molars, erupt into our mouths at a young age with deep pits and fissures, sometimes referred to as “groovy teeth”.
While being “groovy” was hip in the 60s, having groovy teeth can lead to many dental problems that aren’t so cool. These grooves can be difficult to clean, putting teeth at risk for developing decay.
Before tooth decay begins, sealants can be used to fill this deep fissures and grooves, making them easier to cleanse, and resistant to forming decay.
This video offers more information about sealants and tooth decay.
Occlusal Guard
An occlusal guard, also known as a night guard or bite guard, come in many varieties and can be used to treat or prevent tooth, muscle, and joint problems. In its most basic form, an occlusal guard places a hard plastic barrier between your teeth, and like a cell phone cover, acts to absorb damaging forces.
Habits such as clenching and grinding can slowly wear away teeth, making them short, discolored, and sensitive. They can also lead to tooth fracture and tooth pain.
Tooth fracture from clenching and grinding will often lead to the need for crowns, root canals, or complete loss of the teeth. A piece of plastic can go a long way to protecting your long-term oral health.
While an occlusal guard may seem like a simple appliance, its design and material technology are very sophisticated. Its inside lining is often made with a softer material for comfort, while the outside is rigid and hard.
This hard contact causes muscles to release and relax, while softer materials, like chewing gum, often trigger the brain and muscles to continue to clench and grind.
For people who clench and develop headaches or muscle pain, a soft guard can cause damage and considerably worsen their symptoms.
Check out the video: it demonstrates what is an interior bite plane and how it works. This is one of our favorite appliances for treating clenching, grinding, and muscle-related TMJ problems.
FAQ
What is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is the practice of caring for your teeth to keep them healthy. This helps to avoid cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and more. The aim is to prevent dental issues before they occur, ensuring long-term oral health.
What services are included in preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry includes regular dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, dental sealants, oral exams, x-rays, and patient education on proper oral hygiene practices. These services help in maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems.
How often should I visit the dentist for preventive care?
It is generally recommended to visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits based on your individual needs and oral health status.
What are some daily habits for good preventive dental care?
- Brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
- Using mouthwash to rinse away bacteria.
- Eating a balanced diet and limiting sugary foods and drinks.
- Avoiding tobacco products.
- Drinking plenty of water.