What Are Preventive Dental Services?
Preventative dental services are an essential part of maintaining overall oral health. These services ensure that the patient takes all the necessary steps to maintain healthy teeth, gums, and mouth for life. A preventative dental service can involve various treatments, such as regular dental check-ups, fluoride treatments, sealants, and cleanings.
Regular Check-Ups
A dental check-up is an essential preventive dental service that should be done at least once every six months. Regular visits allow your dentist to detect early signs of decay or gum disease and provide an opportunity for a professional cleaning procedure. Furthermore, check-ups provide an opportunity for discussing personal oral hygiene habits and any changes that can be made to ensure optimal oral health. It also allows patients to voice concerns about their current dental treatment or proposed procedures. To maintain healthy teeth, gums, and overall well-being, it is essential to schedule regular dental check-ups with a qualified professional.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are a preventive dental service that helps strengthen teeth and reduce the risk of decay. The topical application of fluoride is recommended for all children once they have twice erupted their teeth, including permanent teeth. Fluoride can also be found naturally in many sources, such as water and foods; however, additional fluoride treatment is beneficial. Fluoride makes the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from sugars and starches found in food while increasing the remineralization process of developing tooth enamel. These treatments are performed by a trained professional such as a dentist or dental hygienist through a fluoride varnish, gel, or foam applied directly to the surface of the teeth.
Sealants
Sealants are a safe and effective preventive measure for protecting teeth from decay. Sealant involves tooth-colored plastic resin applied to the biting surface of molars and premolars with a brush or applicator. This coating acts as a barrier, preventing food particles and plaque from entering the grooves on your back teeth and reducing the risk of cavities. Sealants can be applied in minutes and, depending on their material, can last for many years before requiring reapplication. In addition to its protective benefits against decay, sealant promotes good oral hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing, and other preventative measures by making removing plaque from treated teeth easier.
Routine Dental Examinations
Routine dental examinations are essential preventive dental services that help identify minor problems before they become major. During a typical examination, the dentist will assess the patient’s oral health for signs of decay or gum disease and inspect existing restorations for stability. X-rays may aid in detecting and diagnosing underlying problems not visible during a visual inspection, and soft tissue examinations will take note of abnormal growths or signs of infection, such as oral cancer. During this time, the dentist can also provide additional preventative measures such as sealants and topical fluoride applications to protect teeth from developing cavities.
Ultimately, regular dental check-ups serve a vital role in preserving overall oral health by detecting early signs of problems, providing treatment before more extreme measures are necessary, and educating patients on how to maintain their oral health at home.Preventative dental services are an essential part of maintaining optimal oral health. All these treatments can help ensure that one’s teeth, gums, and mouth stay healthy and in the best shape possible. For more information concerning these services, contact us.
Contact RiteSmile Dental in Sugar Land today!
2225 Williams Trace Blvd Ste 105, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Mon: 8:30am - 12:00pm, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Tue: 10:00am - 2:00pm, 3:00am - 6:00pm
Wed: 8:00am - 12:00pm, 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Thu: 7:30am - 3:30pm
Fri: By Appt only
Sat: By Appt only
*We are open 1 Friday and 1 Saturday per month.
Please call to request a weekend appt.
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