Preventive Dentistry
Maintaining good oral health requires daily brushing and flossing, plus regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings and exams. These steps work together to prevent common dental problems like tooth decay or gum disease before they become more significant. A dentist may also recommend sealants for teeth particularly prone to cavities. Preventive dental care is essential for maintaining good overall health. Keep up your preventative care routine and schedule regular checkups with our dentist at Healthy Smiles of Saint Louis. Our dentist can help you develop a good oral care routine to keep your smile healthy for years to come!
Why Is It Important to Get Regular Check-Ups?
Since dentists have various tools, they can spot potential problems in their early stages when they are much easier to treat. For example, your dentist might recommend deep-cleaning treatments or apply sealants to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. In addition, you might benefit from preventive measures like fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel against bacteria.
Your dentist can also perform an oral cancer screening during your check-up. Oral cancer is hazardous since it can spread rapidly to other areas of your body. Screenings usually involve examining the inside of your mouth and your head and neck to look for lumps, sores, or other signs of disease.
During your routine cleaning appointments, you can also ask your dental hygienist about proper brushing and flossing techniques and which oral hygiene products might work best for you. In some cases, the right toothbrush or floss might be all it takes to eliminate a cavity or prevent one from occurring in the first place.
Important Preventative Dental Treatments
Dental Cleanings
A dental cleaning is a preventive measure that removes plaque and tartar from teeth, reducing the risk of cavities or gum disease. The dentist uses special instruments to clean the surface of the teeth and below the gum line to remove bacteria that can cause problems if left in place. Dentists recommend patients receive a dental cleaning every six months to prevent any harmful buildup from occurring over an extended period.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from decay. Adult patients can benefit from the use of sealants if they have had problems with tooth decay in the past.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride strengthens teeth by remineralization, a process in which minerals fuse to failing portions of tooth enamel. It also prevents tooth decay by interfering with bacteria’s synthesis of acids. Fluoride is a cost-effective strategy to maintain oral health and avoid costly procedures in the future.
You can maintain a beautiful and healthy smile for many years by getting a regular exam and cleaning every six months. For the best dental care, visit Healthy Smiles of Saint Louis at 4224 Watson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63109, or call (314) 832-1366.
