Good oral hygiene means more than just brushing and flossing. To properly take care of your teeth and gums, it is essential to have regular dental checkups and professional dental cleanings. Preventive dental services such as oral exams, regular cleanings, educational instructions, and x-rays will help identify and treat early dental issues before they become serious.
Types of Preventive Dentistry Care
Dental Exams
Your dentist at Gentle Dental will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth. This exam is to proactively look for signs of gum disease or other dental problems.
Digital X-Rays
Routine x-rays help determine and diagnose oral problems that would otherwise go unnoticed. Digital x-rays have significantly lower radiation than traditional x-rays.
Teeth Cleaning
A dentist or a dental hygienist will perform your routine teeth cleaning by removing built up plaque and tartar, flossing, and polishing your teeth. Regular cleaning is important to prevent gum diseases, cavities, bad breath, and other dental problems. Cleaning should be regular and must be scheduled at least twice a year.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps keep teeth healthy and resist decay. Topical fluoride treatments can even stop the development of cavities that are just beginning to develop. For patients that are fluoride deficient, we provide fluoride treatments directly to the teeth during a regular dental exam.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings have become a regular part of a routine dental exam. Early detection of oral cancer increases the overall success rate of treatment. With early detection, treatment can start right away.
Sealants
Sealants are a thin layer of a plastic-based substance that when applied to the teeth prevent plaque and food particles from gathering in the deep grooves of your tooth’s surface. Sealants on permanent molars reduce the risk of cavities by 80%.