It is important that you are provided with the latest oral care techniques so you can maintain a healthy mouth. At Campbell Dental, we are dedicated to providing you with high-quality dental care to last for many years to come!
What Is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is the practice of caring for your teeth to keep them healthy. This helps to avoid cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and more.
There are many forms of preventive dentistry, such as daily brushing and dental cleanings. To maintain optimal oral health, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visits to the dentist at regular intervals determined by a dentist. These practices are designed to ensure that teeth are clean, strong, and white. Children should be taught proper oral hygiene at an early age.
Brush Your Teeth Daily
The most important part of preventive dentistry is to brush your teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). Most people should replace their toothbrushes three to four times per year or as the bristles start to fray. Don’t forget to brush your tongue. This will help remove bacteria from your mouth and also help freshen your breath.
Floss Daily
Daily flossing is also recommended. Flossing helps to clean out the tight spaces between the teeth. If you have braces, you may need to use floss threaders to get between the metal brackets. To achieve the greatest benefit from flossing, you’ll want to make sure you are flossing correctly. At your next dental appointment, ask your hygienist for a quick flossing demonstration to make sure you’re getting the full benefit from using this tool.
What Does Preventive Dentistry Do?
Preventive dentistry averts people from developing dental problems later on. By practicing proper dental care, you can avoid or lessen the effects of:
- Cavities
- Gingivitis
- Enamel Loss
- Periodontitis
Who Benefits from Preventive Dentistry?
Everyone benefits from preventive dentistry. Children, in particular, benefit because it allows their newly developing adult teeth to become strong and healthy. Dental sealants and topical fluoride treatments help prevent decay in your children’s teeth.
Benefits
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Osteoporosis
- Respiratory Disease
- Cancer
Premature birth and low birth weight may also be linked to poor oral health. You should continue to practice or adopt good preventive oral health if you’re pregnant. This includes visiting your dentist for routine checkups during your pregnancy.
In addition to reducing your risk for other health issues, practicing good preventive health can save you money. Even with dental insurance, the costs associated with poor oral hygiene can add up. While preventive dentistry may not completely eliminate your need for fillings, root canals, or dental implants, it can go a long way in reducing your need for these costly treatments.
Periodontal Disease (Gum Infection)
Periodontal disease is an infection that affects gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. Research has also shown that periodontal disease is associated with other chronic inflammatory diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
If you are faced with gum disease, we offer a variety of treatments to help prevent, reverse, or offset the damaging effects of this disease.
Progression of gum disease is influenced by a number of factors which include oral hygiene and genetic predisposition.
One of the challenges for early detection of periodontal disease is its “silent” nature. The disease does not cause pain and can progress unnoticed.
In its early stages, bleeding gums as you brush your teeth may be the only sign, as the disease advances and the gums deteriorate. However, bleeding may stop and there may not be any further obvious signs until teeth start to feel loose.
Do You Need Preventative & Periodontal Treatment in Detroit?
It is always our goal to ensure your oral health is in the best shape possible. We go above and beyond to provide you with tools and tips to maintain great oral care at home or in the office. Contact us today to get started!
If you’re an aging adult, you can benefit from preventive dentistry because it helps maintain your natural teeth. Oral health is connected to the health of your body as a whole. This is because the mouth is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Maintaining a clean mouth benefits your overall health.