Preventive Dentistry
Preventive Dentistry in West Bend
Preventive dentistry focuses on protecting your teeth and gums from disease and includes regular dental checkups and professional cleanings, as well as oral cancer screenings. These treatments guard against such problems as tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, and keep your mouth healthy while identifying any problems before they become more serious. Protecting your teeth through preventive dentistry is essential to your overall health and ensures that your smile will stay healthy for years to come.
Our Preventive Dental Treatments
At Dentistry of West Bend, our team embraces the latest advances in dental care to provide the highest quality service for our patients. Our preventive dental treatments are designed to keep your mouth healthy and guard against tooth decay and disease. Preventive treatments include:
- Comprehensive dental and periodontal maintenance
- Oral cancer screening
- Digital X-rays
- Fluoride dental sealants and treatments
- Orthodontic assessment
- Personalized home care instructions
Our team is also committed to providing excellent patient education to help you spot potential dental problems when signs arise, as well as sharing time-tested tips for keeping your teeth and gums healthy in between dental checkups.
How Preventive Care Can Improve Dental Health
Preventive dental care, such as regular checkups and cleanings, benefits your oral health by reducing your likelihood of developing serious oral health problems such as tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. These problems can lead to even more serious concerns such as periodontal disease and eventual bone loss when left untreated. Because oral health problems can affect your overall health, it is important to detect and treat any developing problems before they become more serious.
How can I prevent dental problems?
The best way to prevent future problems such as tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and even more serious conditions, is by maintaining a preventive oral health routine that includes the following:
- A balanced diet that restricts the consumption of sticky, sugary foods
- Good oral hygiene such as regular brushing and flossing
- Regular dental checkups
- Routine professional dental cleanings
Regular checkups let your dentist closely monitor your oral health and detect any potential problems early enough to treat them before they become more serious.
Regular checkups also provide opportunities to screen for more serious conditions that may require further treatment, such as oral cancer and orthodontic concerns. Early detection is key to the successful treatment of all dental conditions, and early treatment can save you money as well as unnecessary pain and discomfort.
Regular dental cleanings not only keep your teeth looking their best but also remove harmful plaque and tartar that can lead to more serious diseases. Preventive dental care not only keeps your mouth healthy and wards off disease, but it also ensures that your smile will last throughout your lifetime.
Preventive Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions
At Dentistry of West Bend, we make it easy to keep your smile healthy. But many of our patients wonder why they need to schedule appointments for preventive care when they brush and floss at home. By staying proactive with regular checkups and cleanings, you can maintain strong oral health for years. However, we want you to be more informed than that, so we answered some frequently asked questions about preventive dentistry to help you understand how to care for your smile.
What is preventive dentistry, and why is it important?
Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining healthy teeth and gums by stopping problems before they start. Regular checkups, professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants help protect against cavities and gum disease. Preventive care supports overall health and can save you from costly and complex dental procedures.
How often should I visit the dentist for preventive care?
Most patients benefit from a dental exam and professional cleaning every six months. However, some individuals—such as those with gum disease or a history of cavities—may need more frequent visits. Dr. Harding will recommend a schedule that meets your needs and health goals.
What are fluoride treatments, and do I need them?
Topical Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. While many people get fluoride from drinking water or toothpaste, professional fluoride treatments offer extra protection, especially for children, adults prone to cavities, or those with dry mouth.
Are dental sealants only for kids?
No! While dental sealants are commonly applied to children’s molars to protect against cavities, adults with deep grooves in their teeth can also benefit. Sealants create a protective barrier that prevents bacteria and food particles from settling into hard-to-clean areas.
How does my diet impact my oral health?
A diet high in sugar and acidic foods can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of water, fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, and lean proteins helps maintain strong teeth and gums.
Can preventive dentistry help with bad breath?
Yes! Bad breath is often caused by plaque buildup, gum disease, or dry mouth. Regular dental cleanings, good oral hygiene, and staying hydrated can help. If bad breath persists, your dentist can check for underlying causes and recommend treatment.
How can I take care of my teeth between dental visits?
Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss once daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended. To keep your mouth healthy, avoid smoking, limit sugary snacks, and drink plenty of water.
Schedule Your Next Preventive Visit
Regular dental care is key to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Contact Dentistry of West Bend at (262) 618-0251 to schedule your next appointment!