What Does Preventive Dental Care Involve?

Preventive dental care involves all practices of caring for your teeth and mouth to help prevent potential problems. Without preventive dental care, you could experience complications such as tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and more. Preventive dentistry is a part of preventive dental care, and at Bay Area Dental, we will do everything we can to ensure your teeth are strong and healthy.

What does preventive dental care involve?

Preventive dental care involves a number of practices that can help to avoid dental health issues. It entails the following practices:

• Professional cleanings and exams

You should also get in the habit of seeing your dentist in Oakland, CA twice each year for a professional cleaning. These are critical appointments since they provide your dental team with the opportunity to remove hardened plaque and tartar that you can’t see or remove at home.

During these appointments, your dentist will also conduct a thorough examination of the teeth, gums, and mouth. This allows your dentist to identify any potential dental problems before they cause serious discomfort or require extensive dental work.

• Fluoride treatments

Preventing tooth decay is a team effort, and your dental team can help you in your efforts. We will discuss basic oral hygiene techniques, including proper brushing and flossing, and advise you about the use of preventative products, such as mouth rinses and toothpaste that contain fluoride.

• Dental sealants

Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant material is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds and hardens. Dental sealants are very effective in preventing cavities and tooth decay. Sealants form a barrier over the enamel, which helps to prevent food particles and bacteria from getting stuck in the teeth.

• Mouthwash

Mouthwashes are an effective way to remove bacteria and neutralize acids in your mouth, which can help reduce cavities, bad breath, and gingivitis. Mouthwashes can also help prevent plaque buildup and keep your gums healthy.

• Maintain a healthy diet

Avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar, and avoid snacking on sugary foods throughout the day. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. A balanced diet contains nutrients and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, that keep your teeth strong. A balanced diet also helps you to maintain a healthy weight, which protects the teeth from strain and pressure.

• Avoid using tobacco products

Smoking and using other tobacco products can stain your teeth and increase your risk of oral cancer. Besides quitting smoking, you also may want to consider procedures such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, or dental bonding to cover up the stains.

How often should you see a dentist for preventative care?

Most dentists recommend patients come in twice a year for preventative care. However, there are a few factors that can influence this recommendation. For example, individuals who are more prone to periodontal disease may need to come more frequently. Additionally, those who wear braces may find they need to visit their dentist more often.

To learn more about best practices for oral health, call Bay Area Dental at (510) 350-8187 or visit our dental office at 3300 Webster Street, #907, Oakland, CA 94609. Book your appointment with us to achieve the smile you have always wished for.