05 Feb Safeguard Your Smile with Preventive Dentistry

Did you know that teeth cannot repair themselves like other hard tissues in the body? It’s true; once teeth develop permanent damage, they require dental care like restorations, endodontic therapy, and even removal. Beyond protecting your teeth, preventive care can save you money and time spent with your dentist.

Preventive dental care can greatly reduce your risks for developing concerns like periodontal disease, cavities, bone loss, and infected teeth.

Cleanings and Checkups

The first step to safeguarding your smile from oral health concerns is to commit to receiving regular cleanings and checkups. Dental cleanings remove tartar accumulation, a form of debris that cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone. In fact, tartar buildup is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease. Cleanings are an affordable and non-invasive way to keep your oral health in tip-top shape.

Checkups help our dentist monitor your oral health on a regular basis. During a dental checkup, our team will evaluate the health of your teeth and gums with a physical examination and diagnostic imagery. Receiving regular checkups increases your odds of having oral health conditions detected in their earliest stages. When conditions are detected early, they can normally be addressed with conservative, non-invasive treatments.

Fluoride Treatments

For those who have developed damage to their tooth enamel or have struggled with cavities in the past, receiving a fluoride treatment may help reduce their risks for tooth decay. Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps replenish tooth enamel. By strengthening tooth enamel, fluoride treatments help prevent decay.

A fluoride treatment is a quick, comfortable, and affordable way that patients can strengthen their teeth and reduce their risks for cavities.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are another non-invasive treatment option that helps protect teeth from cavity-forming bacteria. A sealant is a micro-thin coating applied to the biting surfaces of teeth to fill in their fissures and grooves. This helps keep bacteria from collecting in these areas. Dental sealants are especially helpful to younger patients but can benefit people of any age.

If you would like to learn more about preventive dental care, call our team at Smiles Naples to schedule a visit with our dentist.