Most people when asked if they want to keep their teeth for their lifetime make the obvious answer: yes! They want their teeth to be strong, functional, with nice smile, and with no painful surprises. Only through prevention can one reach this goal. Prevention drives it all.
To accomplish a healthy smile, two things must be kept under control: Bacteria issues (cavities and gum disease) and bite force, which is termed occlusion. If both halves of the equation are under control, the goal will be reached. If, however, either half is not, continual dental problems, surprises and yes, pain will occur.
The good news is all dental disease is preventable. To that end, we are dedicated to helping our patients gain the knowledge of how to prevent future dental problems.
Comprehensive X-rays & Examinations
When patients schedule periodic examinations, we catch problems in early stage, and prevent the need for costly repairs down the road. Even if you hate to go to the dentist, periodic check-ups can reduce serious problems later in life. We recommend dental checkups in infants as early as one year old, and continue its practice well into your golden years.
Dental Hygiene / Cleaning
The build up of calculus (tarter) on your teeth is a part of life. Having a hygienist clean and remove calculus and/or stains from the teeth helps promote healthier gums. Another benefit? The smile stays brighter as well.
Sealants
Many of the cavities that occur during childhood start in tiny grooves on the teeth’s chewing surfaces. The common toothbrush is not able to reach into these grooves and cavities result. Sealants prevent cavities on the chewing surface by bonding a thin layer of plastic to the grooves, allowing the toothbrush to keep the tooth clean.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride strengthens the tooth by adding fluoride atoms to the crystal structure of the enamel. Enamel is more resistant to the breakdown from bacteria that cause cavities. Fluoride replaces those minerals in the tooth structure lost by decay, reversing the cavity process. Lastly, fluoride helps inhibit cavity-causing bacteria.
Gum Disease Treatment
The main reason people over age 35 lose teeth is due to periodontal (gum) disease. Regular visits to the hygienist will help identify and treat problem areas to keep gums healthy. Once again, prevention is the game-saver.
Bite Correction (Occlusion)
Many of the problems that adults have with their teeth are compounded by a bad bite relationship. The excessive forces from a bad bite on the teeth can loosen or break them, cause the gums to recede, and the jaw joint to break down. A balanced bite allows the patient to keep their teeth healthy. Without a balanced bite, there is no predictable long-term dental health.