Most dental problems are preventable when one maintains proper oral hygiene. What many people don’t understand is proper oral hygiene does not only mean brushing your teeth twice and flossing once. You need to use the right brushing techniques, use the right toothpaste, and undergo regular professional cleanings and exams.
A dentist can help you stay grow cavity-free and avoid other infections such as periodontal disease. In this blog, we will answer frequently asked questions about preventive dental services to help you make an informed decision.
What is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is simply taking proper care of your oral hygiene with the help of a dentist or hygienist. With the help of a dentist, you can grow cavity-free, avoid infections, and maintain a beautiful smile. The dentist will work with you to ensure you don’t need expensive dental services in the future.
Is Preventive Dentistry for Everyone?
Yes, preventive dentistry is not restricted to any age or gender. It is a treatment meant for everyone, from a one-year-old baby to a hundred-year-old senior citizen. It also benefits people who have lost their natural teeth and are using dentures, bridges, or implants.
Some preventive care plans include annual oral cancer screenings. This means you will be screened for oral cancer annually. If you are diagnosed, you will have better odds of beating it because it will be diagnosed early. The dentist can also identify early signs of serious infections such as diabetes and heart attack.
What Are the Benefits of Preventive Dental Care?
Some of the benefits of preventive care include:
- Tooth decay prevention. Cavities are pretty common, especially among children, and a dentist can help your kid grow cavity-free.
- Comprehensive exams whereby the dentist can identify early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other severe infections such as heart attack and high blood pressure.
- Gum disease prevention. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. Preventing it means preserving your natural teeth.
- Fluoride treatment to prevent cavities and strengthen the bone.
- Bad breath help. Bad breath can affect your self-confidence and make you fear talking in public. The dentist can help you always have a fresh breath.
What Is My Role in Preventive Dentistry?
Typically, the dentist is there to guide you, and you should do as he says. Some of the things he might ask you to do are:
- Brush and floss your teeth as recommended. Be sure to use the techniques your dentist will teach you.
- Don’t spit the toothpaste immediately after brushing. Allow the fluoride for about one or two minutes to stay on the teeth so it can be absorbed.
- Use an electric toothbrush whenever possible.
- Use a recommended mouthwash after flossing.
- Reduce your sugary foods and drinks intake
- Cut down your intake of acidic drinks such as soda and alcohol.
- Use sugar-free gum from time to time to increase saliva production in your mouth.
- Quit drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco
- Never miss a scheduled visit to the dentist.
What Are the Types of Preventive Dental Care Services?
- Regular dental exams and professional cleanings. In most cases, these cleanings will come every six months.
- Routine x-ray checkups
- Oral cancer cleanings. However, you should note that not all preventive care plans cover oral cancer screenings. Be sure to confirm with your dentist.
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental sealants
Who Should I See for Preventive Dental Care Services?
A pediatric dentist will help your child from when she’s one year old until her late teen years. Any qualified dentist can help you if you want to start a preventive care plan as an adult. You can also get these services from an oral hygienist.
A Dentist You Can Trust
If you are looking for a dentist in Chicago, you are in the right place. Our clinic is family-friendly, and we can help your child grow cavity-free. You can also count on us for cosmetic and restorative services.
