Preventative Dentistry & The Benefits Explained

Dr. Lee locking arms with Dr. Ngai in the waiting room of Newbury Dental
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Preventative dentistry is an important part of maintaining your oral health. This approach to care focuses on preventing dental issues before they become a problem. 

By regularly visiting the dentist, you can avoid the time and expense of treating dental problems that could have been avoided in the first place. Here are some of the features and benefits of preventative dentistry that everyone should know about.

Regular Check-Ups

Preventative dentistry starts with regular check-ups at your dentist's office. During these visits, your dentist will check for any signs of cavities or other dental issues that may need attention. It's important to get regular check-ups, even if you think your teeth are healthy. Early detection can help catch problems before they become too serious, making them easier and less expensive to treat.

Preventative Dentistry & The Benefits Explained

Regular Cleanings

In addition to regular check-ups, preventative dentistry also includes regular cleanings at your dentist's office. During a cleaning, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, as well as any food particles or other debris that has built up between them. Regular cleanings help keep your gums healthy and can help reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a thin plastic coating that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the teeth. They help protect against tooth decay and cavities, especially in children. Sealants are most commonly used on permanent molars, which typically come in around age 6-16. The process of applying sealants is quick, easy, and painless and can be done during a regular dental visit.

Sealants act as a barrier to cavity-prone areas, preventing food particles and bacteria from getting stuck in the grooves of the teeth. This helps to reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80%. Additionally, sealants can help save time and money as they are more cost-effective than having to fill cavities later on.

Parents need to talk with their child's dentist about whether or not dental sealants are suitable for their children. Factors such as age, oral hygiene habits, and risk of cavities should all be taken into consideration when determining if sealants are necessary.

Overall, dental sealants provide an effective way to help protect your child's teeth from tooth decay and cavities. Talk with your child's dentist today about whether or not dental sealants are right for them!

At Home Care

In addition to professional treatments like cleanings and check-ups, preventative dentistry also includes taking good care of your teeth at home. This means brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Taking good care of your teeth at home is essential for keeping them in top shape between visits to the dentist's office.

Small Lifestyle Changes

Preventative dentistry also includes small adjustments! Here are some of the new habits you can implement:

  • Wear a mouth guard at night and when playing sports.
  • Avoid sugary, hard, or sticky foods and drinks.
  • Quitting smoking and avoiding other tobacco products.
  • Stop chewing on pencils, nails, or any other hard objects.

Conclusion:

Preventative dentistry is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene for people of all ages. From regular check-ups to at home care, preventative dentistry helps ensure that you don't experience any serious dental issues down the road due to neglect or poor maintenance habits. So, take advantage of preventative measures now and enjoy a healthier smile for years to come!

Choose the right dentist for you! Contact the Newbury Dental team.

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Moss Wall in Newbury Dental, located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

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