Within the last five decades, the emphasis on prevention in dentistry has much to do with the progression of dental science. As researchers began to identify the causes of many common dental diseases, dentists were able to educate patients more accurately. Dentists could actually teach patients how to modify diet and lifestyle habits in order to improve their overall dental health.
More recently, research has shown that many dental diseases are directly related to our overall health. Your Woodbury dentist has the ability and expertise to provide the dental care necessary to positively impact your general health and well-being.
Some of the more commonly preventable dental diseases include cavities and gum disease. Other conditions such as oral cancer, TMJ disorders, cosmetic concerns, and orthodontic abnormalities can be successfully corrected if identified early enough. For these reasons preventive dental care is valuable both for prevention and early detection.
Preventive dental care may include:
- Routine x-rays (used to detect decay between the teeth, evaluate the bone levels around the teeth, identify impacted teeth, abscesses, and disorders of the jaw joint)
- Periodontal examination (a thorough evaluation of the gums and bone, used to detect signs and degree of gum disease, gum recession, and plaque accumulation)
- Fluoride treatment (strong concentrations of fluoride can be applied to the teeth periodically to strengthen the enamel, prevent cavities, and reduce sensitivity. Fluoride treatments are typically recommended for both children and adults following routine cleanings)
- Sealants (clear or white resin can be applied to seal and protect the grooves and pits located on the biting surfaces of the back teeth. Most sealants are applied during childhood, but can also be useful for preventing cavities in adult patients.)
- Oral cancer screening (your dentist and staff are trained to identify any abnormal lesions of the mouth, head, neck, and face. Common locations for oral cancer include the sides of the tongue, the soft palate, and the throat, which may be difficult to identify through self-examination alone.)
The old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” certainly applies to preventive dentistry. If you’ve not taken advantage of the preventive services offered by our dentistry team, call Broadway Dental for your appointment today.