A general dentist helps patients prevent oral health concerns before they become problems. A dental checkup is the key way they achieve this. However, there are other preventive dental services that general dentists offer to boost oral health for patients of all ages.
Preventive dental services focus on maintaining oral health and avoiding the development of dental problems. These services can help detect issues early, protect the teeth and gums, and preserve the natural structure of the mouth. Unlike restorative or cosmetic treatments, preventive care aims to reduce the need for more extensive procedures by avoiding concerns or addressing them in their earliest stages.
Through preventive services, general dentists can promote long-term oral health. More specifically, this care helps to manage common risks such as tooth decay, gum disease, enamel erosion, and oral infections. In many cases, these services can also contribute to the early detection of systemic health conditions that show symptoms in the mouth, such as diabetes or osteoporosis. General dentists cannot diagnose these conditions, but they can refer the patient to a medical specialist who can — often sooner than the patient would have sought one out on their own.
Preventive dental services are appropriate for all ages and can be customized based on individual risk factors and lifestyle. These treatments are typically simple, quick, and non-invasive, making them a convenient part of a routine dental care plan.
One of the most essential preventive services is the routine dental checkup and cleaning. These visits, typically scheduled every six months, allow for the removal of plaque and tartar that is impervious to brushing and flossing alone. A thorough oral examination will help detect cavities, gum inflammation, early signs of oral cancer, and issues with the jaw or bite.
Fluoride treatments and dental sealants are other common preventive measures that help protect against tooth decay. Fluoride strengthens enamel, protects the teeth, and relieves sensitivity. However, general dentists only apply sealants to shield the grooves of back teeth from decay, making them especially beneficial for children and teens with newly erupted molars.
Digital X-rays and other diagnostic tools are also common tools a dentist will use during preventive appointments. These screenings enable the dentist to detect problems that may not be visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, or developing abscesses.
Typically, a dental checkup is the best preventive service to start with. As mentioned, during this appointment, the general dentist assesses current oral health and reviews any risk factors that may influence treatment recommendations. It also involves a dental cleaning, during which a dental hygienist will clean, polish, and floss the teeth. With plaque and tartar out of the way, the dentist can then look for signs of cavities and gum disease, taking care to ask about any symptoms the patient is experiencing.
The general dentist then develops a personalized care plan that aligns with the individual’s needs and goals. This may include scheduling more frequent cleanings, applying sealants to newly erupted teeth, or initiating fluoride treatments for cavity-prone areas. For patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes or those taking medications that reduce saliva production, additional preventive measures may be discussed.
Preventive dental care can help you avoid tooth pain, decay, gum disease, and more. To schedule an appointment or explore more services, contact Julie A. Hemingway, D.D.S.. Our Santa Barbara team tailors oral care to every patient’s unique needs.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hemingwaydds.com or call Julie A. Hemingway, D.D.S. at (805) 409-2358 for an appointment in our Santa Barbara office.
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