Preventive dental care, like routine cleanings and checkups, fluoride treatments, sealants, mouthguards, and oral cancer screenings, is highly beneficial for your teeth and gums. Here are some of the benefits of preventive dentistry:
1. Early Detection of Problems
Dental problems like decay, gum disease, and oral cancer may not show obvious warning signs until the condition is quite advanced. Routine exams and cleanings allow your dentist and hygienist to identify oral health issues early before they become more difficult, time-consuming, and costly to treat. Your dental team can also recommend whether or not you would benefit from other services, such as teeth whitening and/or orthodontic treatment.
2. Fortifies Your Tooth Enamel
Getting a fluoride treatment in conjunction with a dental cleaning can strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce your risk of developing tooth sensitivity and decay. Your dental team can also recommend specific dental products that would be helpful in your at-home oral care routine.
3. Improves Your Gum Health
During your routine dental cleanings, your hygienist will carefully scrape away bacteria that has accumulated along the surfaces of your teeth and under your gums. Otherwise, these bacteria, called plaque and tartar, produce toxins that irritate and inflame your gums. Irritated gums can pull away from teeth, which makes you more susceptible to tooth sensitivity and infection.
Preventive Dental Care at Home
Visiting the dentist twice a year is just one aspect of promoting strong teeth and healthy gums. You also need to maintain good oral health habits at home. For example: brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time; floss every day; eat a balanced diet; drink plenty of water; and avoid tobacco products.
Schedule Your Checkup at North River Dental Care in Fredericksburg, VA
At North River Dental Care, we offer comprehensive dental services, including preventive dentistry, to keep your smile looking and feeling great. Our team can also give you personalized advice on how to improve your oral habits at home. Please contact us today to schedule your visit!
