Preventive dentistry is the practice of identifying, treating, and preventing dental diseases. We’ll go through preventative dentistry and what it means for you as a patient in this article. So, what exactly is it?
Preventive dentistry is dental treatment that seeks to preserve oral health. Regular dental check-ups and good health habits such as brushing and flossing your teeth are the components. Your teeth are a valuable gift that benefits your body throughout your life, from youth to old age if you take good care of them. They are something that you should treat with a high degree of respect and care.
Each day we use our teeth while we eat, talk, or even smile. Teeth and gums are sensitive and need to be cared for daily or they can be subjected to infection, decay, and total loss. If problems are detected early on, we can take preventative measures that will stop concerns from developing into serious problems. Many of the procedures that your dentist performs on neglected teeth cost more to treat. They are also more painful and take longer to heal in many cases.
Preventive dentistry along with regular care and good dental hygiene can save you time, money, and pain. Not to mention hassle, or even regret and shame.
What role does your dentist play in preventive dentistry?
The following are considered preventive dental:
- Dental check-ups
- Teeth cleanings
- X-Rays
- Oral cancer screenings
Your dental insurance plan may cover all or most preventive dental care. Dental insurances cover these costs because they are cheaper than most other more invasive procedures and they prevent them from being necessary. So, if you have insurance it is highly recommended that you get into the dentist for your preventive dentistry treatments. Most dentists recommend every 6 months, minimum.
However, if you do not have dental insurance, you will have to pay out of pocket for your treatment and services. It is still worth it to see a dentist, but some dental offices offer great programs like membership plans that give you discounts for services. If you don’t have insurance, you might want to look into that.
What is your part in preventive dentistry?
Keep in mind that part of your preventive dental care doesn’t involve the dentist at all. It is your responsibility to maintain your oral hygiene.
Here are some of the most important components of excellent oral health:
At the very least, brush your teeth twice a day – both morning and night. Also, use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
To remove food trapped between your teeth and prevent plaque from developing, floss daily!
Rinse with a mouthwash after flossing. Never use mouthwash as a substitute for brushing or flossing.
Avoid sugary foods and drinks, sticky foods, bones, pits, seeds, chewing on ice and other hard foods as well. These are hazardous to your precious teeth. Our jaws can bite down with over 200 pounds of pressure.
Tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco posed a hazard to your oral health. So does smoking cannabis. Avoid these for the sake of your teeth.
If you are participating in sports, wear a mouth guard.
More about the dentist
A dentist (or a pediatric dentist for kids) may provide you with additional guidance and assistance in the area of preventative dentistry for your child.
A general dentist is one who does all types of dental treatments. Most general dentists are also known as family dentists. This is a dentist who works with both adults and children. In the case that you want regular preventative care, such as teeth cleanings, check-ups, and X-rays, a general dentist is ideal.
One of your dentists’ main tasks is to teach you about all of the dental treatment options for you. They can spot any early warning signals and assist you in establishing healthier habits. A dentist may also refer to a specialist in certain circumstances as well.