Preventive dentistry is all about the actions taken by a patient to avoid oral diseases and maintain a healthy smile for a long time. These actions include flossing, fluoride-containing toothpaste, and maintaining a healthy diet. It also includes scheduling regular oral exams and professional cleanings. This blog sheds light on the goal of preventive dentistry.
Why is Preventative Dentistry So Important?
Taking preventative steps towards healthy oral hygiene decreases your risk of cavities, enamel loss, gingivitis, periodontitis, and other dental problems. This has more to do than just a bright smile and healthy teeth. Reducing your chance of getting problematic oral conditions reduces your risk of getting stuck with poor dental health issues.
These can include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
Types of Preventive Dentistry Care
Dental Cleanings and Screenings
You need to get a dental cleaning every six months to remove any dental plaque and stains you can’t remove yourself and check for tooth decay.
Fluoride Treatments
Being a natural mineral means fluoride keeps your teeth healthy and away from decay. Current fluoride treatments can’t stop the formation of cavities. Patients who are fluoride deficient are provided treatments for their teeth directly.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings should be a regular part of your dental exam routine. When oral cancer is caught and treated early, it increases the success rate and is treated immediately.
Sealants
Sealants are coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of permanent teeth at the back to protect from tooth decay. Sealants on permanent molars decrease cavity risk by 80%.
Nightguard
A nightguard can help if you have bruxism, which causes you to grind or clench your teeth at night. Your jaws become less tense, and your teeth stop grinding against one another.
Preventive Dentistry Oral Care Practices
The goal of preventative dentistry focuses on keeping your teeth healthy. Some recommended practices are as follows:
- Brush your teeth two times a day. Brushing with a soft-bristle toothbrush for two minutes is recommended. You should also replace your toothbrush every few months, especially if your bristles are frayed.
- Floss once a day. By cleaning between your teeth, you avoid getting tooth-decaying bacteria. Flossing removes food particles and plaque stuck between teeth and gums.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Visiting your dentist allows you to stay on top of any issues regarding your dental health.
- Keep a balanced diet. It’s important to take vitamins and minerals for your teeth. Limit sugary drinks and snacks and instead have a lot of water intake.
What Are the Major Goals of Preventive Dentistry?
Preventing Oral Diseases
- Quick identification of any oral health problems to prevent them from worsening.
- A decrease in gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues.
Promoting Oral Health
- Promoting routine dental examinations and cleanings.
- Teaching patients the value of sustaining the best possible oral hygiene habits.
Reducing Dental Treatment Costs
- Practical treatment reduces the need for major dental procedures.
- Focusing on prevention lowers patients’ long-term healthcare costs.
Final Note
Your dentist can guide you on how often you should visit them. It’s different for everyone, depending on what they believe should be the goal of preventative dentistry.
Integrity Dental is your trusted dental clinic for quality care. If you want optimal dental health, Dr. Viraj Shah and his dental team are here to help. Dial (586) 977-0300 to give us a ring!