Preventative Dental Care
Dental Care for Protection
We have all heard from a young age that it is important to brush and floss our teeth twice a day. That is only one aspect of caring for the teeth and keeping them healthy. Preventative dental care also includes regular oral exams, professional cleanings, and routine X-rays along with good lifestyle choices such as proper nutrition and hygiene habits.
If it has been a while since you or your family has seen a dentist, it is time for a checkup. Preventative dentistry is available at Cedar Grove Dental Group in Cedar Grove, NJ and the surrounding area. Call us at (973) 857-0567 to schedule an appointment.
Why Preventative Care is Important
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one out of every four adults has untreated tooth decay. Delaying a visit to the dentist increases the likelihood of developing painful and expensive dental issues in the future. Preventative dental care can help lower the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other serious dental problems, as well as reduce dental issues associated with chronic medical conditions like diabetes.
Oral health is closely linked to overall health, as the mouth is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and serves as the entry point to the digestive and respiratory systems. Without proper oral hygiene and preventative dentistry, secondary health problems like respiratory and heart disease can arise.
In addition to reducing the risk of other health issues, practicing good preventive dental care can also save money. While it may not eliminate the need for treatments like fillings entirely, it can significantly decrease the need for costly services. A study by Cigna found that individuals who did not receive preventive care saw a 43% increase in their annual dental costs compared to those who did. This highlights the importance of regular preventive oral health care and following dentist recommendations for achieving cost savings each year.
“The longer someone waits to visit the dentist, the more likely they are to develop painful and costly dental problems later on.”
Make sure to schedule regular visits to the dentist
Regular dental cleanings and exams are crucial for keeping your mouth healthy. While it's typically advised to see the dentist twice a year, the frequency of visits should be tailored to each individual's needs. Factors such as oral health status, medical history, and risk factors will be taken into consideration. Personalized care is key, as some family members may need more frequent visits than others. Our dentist will evaluate each patient's risk factors and suggest the right number of follow-up appointments.
“Dental cleanings and exams allow dentists to identify problems and take care of them immediately.”
The Details of a Dental Cleaning
Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of preventive dental care. During these appointments, our dentist will examine your teeth for any issues that may require extra attention during your daily oral hygiene routine. These visits typically include a checkup to look for signs of oral cancer and may involve taking X-rays.
A basic dental cleaning involves a thorough examination of your mouth using a small mirror to check for inflammation or other concerns. Our team will then use scraping tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, followed by a deep cleaning with an electric brush and flossing. Throughout the cleaning process, your mouth will be rinsed with water as needed.
Deep cleanings are used to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gum line to prevent gum disease and tooth loss. Antibiotics may be prescribed to fight bacteria, and a local anesthetic is used to numb the gums during this more intensive cleaning process.
“A routine dental cleaning is a major component of preventative dentistry.”
Choose the Correct Lifestyle Options
The choices we make in our daily lives can significantly impact the dental health of our families. Poor sleep, smoking, and piercings are just a few examples of personal decisions that can harm our oral health. Smoking can hinder the natural healing process in our mouths and increase the risk of dental disease, while piercings in the lips, cheeks, or tongue can lead to gum recession and chipped teeth.
Maintaining a healthy diet is also crucial for preventing dental issues in the future. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can weaken the tissues in our mouths, making them more susceptible to infection and gum disease, which is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Limiting the consumption of sugary foods and drinks is important as well. Sugar is the preferred food source for bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, many sugary foods and drinks are acidic and can erode the protective enamel on our teeth. Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet from the five major food groups can provide the vitamins and minerals necessary for good oral health.
“Lifestyle choices can have a direct effect on a family’s dental health.”
Please review the following treatment options:
A dentist may recommend additional services like fluoride or dental sealants to help with preventative dental care for families. Fluoride strengthens teeth to make them more resistant to decay, with many dentists offering treatments for children under 18. For those prone to cavities, a special gel for daily home use may be suggested. Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surface of teeth to protect them from food debris and bacteria that cause cavities. The process involves cleaning the teeth, applying the sealant, and then hardening it with a laser or ultraviolet light, all in less than an hour.
