You’ve got a great smile. Now, let’s focus on keeping it that way. Preventive dentistry includes those dental services that are designed to help preserve your smile. By working to eliminate the most common causes of dental problems, your dentist can help you to prevent many problems from occurring in the first place.
We tend to think of preventive dental care as a part of childhood dental checkups: cleaning, fluoride treatments, and sealants. It’s important to understand that these services are also vital for adult patients. Even if you have had cavities, fillings, or periodontal disease in the past, it’s not too late to seek preventive care to protect your future smile.
Most dental diseases are caused by the accumulation of bacteria. Plaque bacteria are responsible for gum disease and also cavities, two conditions that can be prevented with a little help from your dentist. For children, the development of the teeth and jaws can also contribute to dental problems. If any development issue can be predicted to impact your child’s overall dental health, preventive measures may be put into place to as soon as possible.
For the greatest impact, you’ll need to adhere to regularly scheduled dental visits. According to your needs at each visit, the preventive procedures that are recommended for you may vary. For example, patients who are found to be at an increased risk for cavities may benefit from more frequent fluoride treatments. Patients who are at risk for gum disease may require additional cleanings or a prescription mouthrinse. These visits also provide an opportunity for you to learn more about caring for your oral health between dental visits.
With routine dental care, you’ll discover that there are a number of benefits for both you and also your family. Routine preventive care decreases the chance that more extensive or invasive dental care will be required moving forward.
By stabilizing your oral health and preventing future dental problems, you can enjoy a healthier, more attractive smile for many years. Contact the office of Dr. John Withers at (940) 293-2635 to schedule your professional dental exam and cleaning today.