Practicing preventive dentistry in Sugar Land
Preventing serious dental issues is always a better option than treating them after they arise. For the most part, the most common problems that patients experience today can be prevented through at-home tech
niques and regular dental check-ups. The information below will cover the basics of preventive dentistry and the benefits it can provide.
What is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry describes the practice of caring for the health of your teeth and gums on an ongoing basis. As the name implies, preventive dentistry involves many practices that can help you avoid common issues such as cavities, gum disease, excessive enamel wear, and so much more.
Procedures Involved in Preventive Dentistry in Sugar Land
Preventive dentistry involves procedures you perform at home and those you get done by your dentist. Your dentist will utilize the following tools and techniques to help you prevent some of the most common dental complaints.
* General Tooth Cleanings
General tooth cleanings and tartar removal should ideally be performed every six months. During this procedure, your dentist will carefully evaluate your mouth to check for the early signs of any problems. Following this important step, he will then remove any tartar build-up to leave you with thoroughly clean teeth.
* X-Rays
Preventive X-rays can help your dentist detect the signs of any issues involving your teeth and the bones that support them. Bone loss, infections, and early signs of decay can often be detected by X-ray.
* Flouride Treatments
Some dental professionals perform in-office fluoride treatments to prevent future tooth decay. Fluoride can be very helpful in protecting the teeth and making them more resistant to decay. In addition to the regular use of fluoride toothpaste, in-office treatments can provide an effective way for you to prevent cavities down the line.
* Early Detection of Minor Issues
As stated earlier, correcting issues early can prevent serious complications, pain, and more costly treatment methods. Regular dental exams on a semi-annual basis can often catch any issues that do exist while they are in an easily treatable stage.
Problems that Preventive Dentistry Can Correct
Preventive dentistry can help protect you from the need for more invasive procedures down the line. Cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, the break down of enamel, and even the negative effects of bruxism can be successfully prevented through regular dental care.
At-Home Maintenance for Avoiding Common Dental Issues
In addition to visiting your dentist twice a year, there are many steps you can take from the comfort of your home to protect the health of your mouth. Consider the following basic recommendations below.
* Brush Twice a Day
Most dental professionals recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brushing after each meal is an even better way to ensure your teeth remain healthy for a lifetime.
* Floss Daily
Simple brushing is not enough to remove food particles and bacteria from the cracks and crevices between teeth. This is especially true if you have moderate tooth crowding and lack adequate space between the teeth. Flossing once or twice a day can provide additional protection against gum disease and cavities that occur close to the gum line.
* Eat a Healthy Diet
Consuming a healthy diet can go a long way toward protecting the overall health of your mouth, teeth, and gums. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide vitamins and minerals that can enhance the health of your oral cavity. Additionally, sugary snacks and drinks should be limited or avoided.
* Avoid Misuse of the Teeth
Many people develop habits that can be detrimental to the health of their teeth and gums. It is best to avoid picking at your teeth, chewing or biting on hard objects, or grinding your teeth. If you are aware that you have a problem with tooth grinding, your dentist can supply you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth from damage.
The Importance of a Skilled and Caring Dental Team
Dental issues can create a lot of stress and anxiety in your life. By working along with your dentist to practice excellent preventive care techniques, you’ll be able to ward off many of the common dental issues that affect people today. If you’re in need of preventive dental care in the Sugar Land, Texas area, please contact our office today. We are equipped with the latest dental techniques to ensure that your mouth remains healthy and beautiful for many years to come.
