General and family dentistry is a vital part of maintaining your overall wellness. Most adult patients see their dentist every six months for a cleaning and comprehensive examination. However, your dentist may create an individualized schedule based on your oral health.
Preventive dental procedures include:
- Cleanings (Oral prophylaxis or Periodontal Maintenance)
- Comprehensive oral examinations
- Routine X-rays
- Fluoride treatments (where indicated)
- Periodontal care, such as scaling and root planing and localized antibiotics
Setting a Unique Schedule for Preventive Care
If the standard six-month time frame is not sufficient to maintain your oral health, your dentist may schedule appointments more frequently. Reasons for this decision may include greater vulnerability to tooth decay, active gum disease, or the presence of orthodontic appliances. Periodontal patients typically visit every three months. Some patients may only need to visit once per year, but a closer interval is far more common than an extended one.
The Elements of a Preventive Care Visit
Your hygienist will greet you and help you feel comfortable. If you have a scheduled X-ray, that often comes first. Next, they will check the health of each tooth with a visual examination. The hygienist uses a scaler (metal or ultrasonic) to remove all plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces.
They polish your teeth with a toothpaste that is gritty enough to clean them but gentle enough not to damage your enamel. After a rinse, the hygienist flosses your teeth and ensures you will be able to do so at home. Your dentist will perform your comprehensive oral exam.
Benefits of Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry has a significant impact on your dental health. The benefits go beyond the pleasant “clean” feeling you experience at the end of your appointment.
Early Detection
Preventive visits help your dental care team catch issues quickly before they become significant problems. If you have signs of emerging tooth decay or gum disease, for example, your dentist can recommend taking action to repair, or in some cases, reverse the damage. Digital X-rays, usually taken annually unless needed for diagnostics, also help us pinpoint decay.
Oral Cancer Screening
As part of a comprehensive exam, we thoroughly check for any signs of oral cancer. Oral cancer is most treatable in its early stages. Patients whose oral cancer goes undetected may experience severe illness.
Treat Gum Disease
Gum disease is often reversible in its earliest stages, but if it progresses, you may need regular periodontal visits to control the condition. Scaling and root planing form the foundation of periodontal care. The procedure removes all traces of plaque and tartar from the entire tooth surface, both above and below the gumline. Clean teeth and healthy gums help the patient overcome the infection that causes the condition.
Check Existing Restorations
We check your dental restorations to ensure they are in good repair and continuing to protect your teeth. A cracked or broken filling or crown, for example, can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, the need for further treatment, such as a root canal.
The Power of Prevention
Following your recommended visit schedule helps protect your natural teeth for years to come. Preventive care not only keeps your teeth healthy, but it also improves your quality of life. Confidence in your smile is the key.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dentistry
What happens when you skip or delay preventive visits?
If you miss a dental cleaning, you will notice more plaque buildup on your teeth. Your gums may become darker in color, swollen, and could bleed when brushed or flossed. You could develop toothaches. If you haven’t been to the dentist in some time, we welcome you to get back on track with your oral health.
Is fluoride appropriate for adults?
Fluoride’s benefits continue beyond childhood. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps harden tooth enamel and reduce your risk of developing tooth decay. We recommend using dental products containing fluoride. Most adults can benefit from the topical use of fluoride.
Are X-rays safe?
Today’s digital X-rays use a small fraction of the radiation from the older film systems you remember, reducing their potential health risks. We only take these images when necessary for your treatment and follow the ADA’s guidelines of xray frequency.
What happens if my dentist detects a problem with my teeth?
We will schedule a prompt follow-up appointment to treat your issue and restore your comfort. We offer a wide range of dental services and will make referrals available to you when most appropriate.
Does dental insurance cover preventive care?
Many policies cover preventive care, with standard cleanings and exams at no out-of-pocket cost. Please call your insurer to verify your coverage, or speak with our office team.
JM Dental of Westbury provides personalized care to residents of the local area and beyond. If you would like to schedule a routine visit or need any other type of dental care, please feel free to contact our office today!