A strong, healthy, and attractive smile begins with comprehensive at-home care and in-office preventive treatment. At our practices in Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, Aliana and Sugar Land, TX, we emphasize preventive dentistry as part of our commitment to providing quality care. Because preventive dentistry is important not only to your oral health, but your overall health, we recommend scheduling checkups every six months.
Preventive dentistry includes dental procedures and practices geared towards preventing damage or complications. Taking a proactive approach to your health can save you time and money, in addition to helping you avoid unnecessary problems.
What is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry includes in-office treatments, such as six-month checkups, sealants, fluoride treatments, and deep cleanings designed to complement your daily flossing and brushing. Each of these elements can lower the likelihood of an oral health problem like cavities, infections, or enamel loss.
During a routine exam, we can evaluate the health and structure of your smile and make note of any areas of concern.
During your exam, your dentist will assess your oral health and recommend preventive treatments. For example, our dentists often recommend the application of sealants to help young patients avoid developing cavities on the biting surfaces of molars. Your dentist will also be able to identify whether your daily hygiene techniques are thorough. If he notices any areas you may be missing when you brush or floss, he will alert you to those spots and show you how to do take care of your teeth and gums more effectively.
Why is Preventive Dentistry Important?
Preventing oral health issues is always better than treating problems as they occur. Even relatively minor tooth problems like cavities, enamel loss, and teeth grinding can cause significant pain and, if left untreated, can develop into much more serious issues. Any steps that you can take to avoid or slow the development of these problems will lead to better health, less discomfort, and a more beautiful smile.
Taking a proactive approach to your health can save you time and money, in addition to helping you avoid unnecessary problems.
In addition, research shows that oral health problems are often linked with other health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, serious infections, and even certain cancers.
What to Expect During a Preventive Exam
Whether it is your first appointment with us or you have been seeing us for several years, your doctor will begin your consultation with x-rays to identify any current problems like cavities or infection. Next, he will examine your mouth to look for visual signs of tooth decay or gum disease. During your six-month appointment, we can also include a routine cleaning. If there are any issues that require further action, your doctor will discuss your treatment options with you. You can also discuss any questions or concerns that you have at this time regarding at-home care.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
At our practice, we treat patients of all ages and can provide preventive care tailored to your individual needs. The first step towards proactive oral health is scheduling your consultation, so contact us today to make an appointment or to learn more about our preventive dental care services.