If you want a pretty smile, healthy teeth and gums are a must. That’s why daily oral hygiene practices (like twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing) are so important. But, even with the best hygiene practices, we still need to visit a family dentistry center for preventative dentistry treatments, like checkups and cleanings.
Experts recommend visiting a dentist at least twice a year for annual exams and disease prevention. If it has been longer than six months since your last dental visit, then it’s time for another preventative dentistry appointment. Contact Dr. Thomas W. Wegner at Town and Country Dental in Oak Park, IL, at (708) 383-0330 to get scheduled now!
The goal of preventative dentistry is to promote good oral health and prevent the need for more invasive dental treatments. In this blog, we discuss some of the types of preventative dentistry treatments that can help you achieve a healthier smile.
1. Regular Dental Checkups
One of the most important aspects of preventative dentistry is regular dental checkups. During a dental checkup, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar buildup. Then, a dentist examines your teeth and gums for signs of decay, cavities, and gum disease.
While experts recommend that you visit your dentist at least twice a year for a routine checkup and cleaning, some patients may require more frequent trips. Be sure to talk to your dentist about a cleaning and checkup schedule that works for you.
2. Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to strengthen weak tooth enamel and prevent dental decay. As such, fluoride treatments are a quick and easy preventative dentistry solution to prevent oral issues.
Your dentist can apply a fluoride gel or foam to your teeth during a routine checkup. The treatment should remain on the teeth for at least 30 minutes. Be sure to avoid overly hot foods and drinks during this time as the heat can alter the effectiveness of the treatment.
3. Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin, plastic-like coatings that a dentist applies to the oft-used chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars. Sealants create a protective barrier that helps to prevent cavities by keeping food and bacteria from getting stuck in the grooves of the teeth.
Typically, dental sealants are a pediatric preventative dentistry treatment. However, sealants are not limited to children, which means that adults are welcome to explore this preventative treatment, too.
4. Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screening is a preventative dentistry measure that involves checking your mouth for signs of oral cancer. Your dentist examines your mouth, tongue, and throat for any abnormalities, such as lumps, bumps, or sores.
Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for successful treatment, so it is important to have regular oral cancer screenings. X-rays are an ideal addition to oral cancer screenings, as x-rays can help locate hidden signs of oral cancer.
Preventative Dentistry in Oak Park, IL
Preventative dentistry is the best way to avoid painful and costly oral issues in the future. So, don’t delay–schedule your next preventative appointment with Dr. Wegner at Town and Country Dental today. Patients can fill out a contact form online here, or they may call our Oak Park dental office at (708) 383-0330 to get started now!