Introduction
Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that is focused on preventing dental problems before they occur. It involves regular check-ups, cleanings, and other procedures that help maintain the health of the teeth and gums.
Preventive dental care is important for people of all ages, as it can reduce the risk of dental issues, from tooth decay and gum disease to oral cancer. Preventative dental treatment is different from restorative dentistry, which is focused on treating dental problems that have already occurred.
While restorative dentistry is important, it is also more costly and time-consuming than a preventive dental practice. By taking a proactive approach to dental care, preventive dentistry can help people save money and avoid the need for more extensive treatments down the road. Additionally, it helps people to have a nice smile and a good oral health.
What is included in preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry includes a variety of procedures and treatments that are designed to maintain the health of the teeth and gums.
Some of the most common procedures included in preventive dentistry are oral exams and cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, and oral cancer screenings.
Oral exams and cleanings are typically the first step in a preventive dental appointment. During an oral exam, the dentist will examine the teeth and gums for signs of decay, infection, or other problems.
The cleaning portion of the visit involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth, which helps to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
X-rays are taken to check the health of the teeth and jaws, fluoride treatments are applied to strengthen the tooth enamel and make it more resistant to decay, sealants are applied to the back teeth to protect them from decay and oral cancer screenings are done to check for early signs of oral cancer.
How does preventive dentistry prevent dental problems?
Preventive dentistry helps to prevent dental problems in a number of ways.
One of the most important ways is by removing plaque and tartar from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, and if it is not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
This build-up of plaque and tartar can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can cause significant damage to the teeth and gums if left untreated.
Another way that preventive dentistry helps to prevent dental problems is by detecting and treating issues early. During regular check-ups and cleanings, the dentist will look for signs of decay, infection, or other problems and will address them as soon as possible.
This can help to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems that require extensive and costly treatment.
Additionally, preventive dentistry also includes educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, which can help them maintain the health of their teeth and gums between visits to the dentist.
General Tips from Dentists
- Care for your teeth at any age.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste.
- Brush your teeth regularly and also brush your tongue.
- Chew sugar free gum.
- Do dental checks regularly.
How often should you visit a dentist?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that people visit the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings at least twice a year. This schedule is based on the idea that most dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, can be prevented or treated if they are identified and addressed early.
Additionally, regular check-ups and cleanings allow the dentist to monitor the patient’s overall oral health and make recommendations for any necessary treatments or changes to their oral hygiene routine. It also helps to prevent periodontal diseases.
However, the schedule for preventive dentistry may vary depending on an individual’s specific needs. For example, people who are at higher risk for dental problems, such as those with a history of tooth decay or gum disease, may need to visit the dentist more frequently. Additionally, people who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or a suppressed immune system, may also need to visit the dentist more often to ensure that their oral health is not being affected.
Contact us at our dental clinic in Turkey and we will help you with everything!