General & Preventative
Dentistry

What Is Preventative Dentistry?

Visits to the general dentist allow for basic dental care as well as preventive measures. Patients of all ages can benefit immensely from seeing a general dentist regularly. Regular visits to Smile Plus Dentistry allow our dentist to check for irregularities and detect any warning signals early on. Preventive care can then be administered to ensure that good dental health is maintained.

General and preventive dentistry encompass all of the services and treatments available to patients to assist them to keep their teeth and gums as healthy as possible to avoid decay and illness. It may also include preventative measures such as fluoride or sealants to lower the chance of decay.

The Importance of Preventive Dentistry

Periodic examinations and cleanings allow us to monitor your teeth for decay or infection, screen for oral cancer and disorders like infection in the soft tissue of your mouth and gums and ensure that your smile is sparkling clean and free of bacterial buildup.

We may suggest more frequent visits for individuals who have gum disease or are prone to decay but be assured that everything we offer, from fluoride treatments to mouthguards, is tailored to your specific needs.

Procedures for Preventive Dentistry

Teeth Cleanings

Prophylaxis or dental cleanings are used to clean healthy teeth in order to prevent tooth decay as well as gum disease. Cleanings are best to be done 2 times per year for healthy gums and more often when there is a sign of gum disease.

Dental Sealants

Dental Sealants are thin coatings that when painted on chewing surfaces of molars can prevent the formation of cavities and the subsequent need for fillings. They are mainly used for kids who have developed their secondary dentition.

What Is Fluoride?

This mineral is easily integrated into the mineral structure of the teeth, making them stronger and more resistant to decay. Fluoride can even reverse the formation of small cavities. If your toothpaste and drinking water aren't providing enough, it can be applied directly to your teeth at the dentist's office.

Night Guards

Mouthguards are designed to absorb and distribute impact forces while minimizing severe injury to the mouth's hard and soft tissues. Wearing a custom night guard can minimize the effect of bruxism (clenching or grinding) which can lead to joint TMJ dysfunction and pain. The best ones are produced specifically for you by your dentist.