Can you imagine never experiencing a toothache? Or dealing with a minor filling rather than a root canal and crown? For more and more people, this is their reality, thanks to preventative dentistry. In addition to brushing and flossing daily, visiting the dentist regularly for preventative care is essential to maintain a healthy mouth. This allows us to identify and treat little problems long before they turn into big problems. At Ward Creager Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in North Ogden, Utah, we understand how vitally important preventative care is for our patients and strongly encourage all our patients to visit us for preventive care every six months.
What is Preventative Dentistry?
Preventative dentistry combines dental care methods to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral problems. It involves regular check-ups, cleanings, and education about oral hygiene practices. Preventive dentistry also aims to detect dental issues at their earliest stages, thus preventing more serious dental complications and unnecessary medical expenses.
Preventative Dentistry
Procedures
Preventative dentistry focuses on preventing oral health problems, so our procedures are all targeted towards maintaining oral health. Procedures we provide at our office include:
Getting your teeth professionally cleaned by our excellent dental hygienists at Ward Creager Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is an excellent way to prevent oral health problems like tooth decay. Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar from teeth and the gum line using specialized tools.
X-ray technology allows the dentist to identify decay early before it is visible to the eye. Taking action at this point avoids abscesses, the need for root canals, or more restorative procedures. We can also check for appropriate development of teeth and bone and assess for healthy bone levels around teeth.
Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to strengthen teeth and prevent decay, as well as reverse the early stages of tooth decay.
Dental sealants are an excellent preventative measure for cavities. Sealants are a thin coating painted on the grooved chewing surfaces of back teeth, sealing off the tooth structure from bacteria and preventing cavities.
Oral cancer is a prevalent form of cancer that not many consider getting examined for when visiting a dentist for a check-up. However, we strongly believe in ensuring we can prevent or catch oral cancer early through preventative measures like oral cancer screenings. Oral cancer screenings involve a visual and physical examination of the mouth, throat, and tongue to detect any early signs of oral cancer.
At-Home Oral Health Prevention
In addition to regular dental visits, practicing proper oral hygiene at home is crucial for maintaining good dental health. At-home habits that will improve your oral health include:
Brushing Your Teeth
Brush your teeth twice daily, ideally after breakfast and before bedtime, with fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing
Floss daily to remove debris and bacteria between teeth and along the gum line.
Water Flossers
Using a waterflosser flushes out debris and reduces bacteria levels around the teeth, keeping the gums healthy and preventing periodontal disease. This does not replace the need for regular flossing.
Mouthwash
Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Diet
Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages that cause tooth decay. Specifically, avoid snacking and sipping all day long.
Toothbrush Replacement
Replace your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles fray.
What are the Benefits of
Preventative Dentistry?
Preventative dentistry offers several benefits for our patients, including:
Early detection and treatment of dental problems: Regular dental check-ups enable Dr. Creager to detect dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer at their early stages, increasing the chances of successful treatment.
Reduced risk of tooth loss: Preventative dentistry helps patients keep their natural teeth longer by preventing the need for extractions.
Enhanced overall health: Did you know oral health connects to overall health? Proper preventative oral care can help reduce the risk of medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Reduced medical expenses: Treating dental problems at their early stages is typically less costly than treating more advanced dental complications.
Preventative Dentistry
in North Ogden, UT
Preventative dentistry is a proactive approach to oral health care to prevent dental problems from occurring or developing further. Dr. Creager and his dental team are committed to educating all of our patients about preventative steps, as well as treatment plan options to optimize oral health. Consistent preventative dental care can save your smile and ensure a healthier life.
So, are you ready to take charge of your oral health and prevent oral problems from occurring? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ward Creager today!
