Preventive dentistry is all about maintaining good oral health through regular checkups, cleanings, and other treatments, as well as at-home care. This includes flossing daily, brushing after meals, and scheduling dental check-ups every six to twelve months. At Sun Lakes Family Dental, our dentist will help you create a personalized preventive care plan to keep your teeth healthy and clean. 

Some patients may need more frequent dental visits based on their dental health needs. Our dentist may recommend you schedule teeth cleanings and exams every six months or as required. During these appointments, our dentist can clean your teeth and gums, removing any plaque buildup from your teeth. This will prevent cavities, tooth decay, and other oral health problems from occurring in the future. 

What Kinds of Problems Can Preventive Dentistry Prevent? 

Preventive dental care can offset the development of various oral health problems. In some cases, it can even resolve them entirely! When a patient doesn’t visit the dentist as often as they should and their oral hygiene habits are poor, plaque can build up on their teeth and harden into tartar. This can cause issues like gum disease, cavities, enamel erosion, bad breath, and more to develop. Fortunately, when patients visit their dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, they can keep these issues at bay. 

Regular care can also help with issues caused by involuntary teeth grinding. During sleep, many people clench their teeth together without realizing it. Over time, this can wear down the teeth and cause problems like worn-down tooth enamel, headaches, and jaw pain. Addressing this issue earlier means it will be far easier to treat. 

Patients can also receive treatment for TMJ disorders. Often, patients experience symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction without even knowing they have a real disorder. Dentists who diagnose TMD can use conservative treatments like mouthguards and night guards to alleviate symptoms. Other patients may need more advanced treatment from an oral surgeon to correct the problem. 

Benefits of Preventive Dentistry 

Regular dental cleanings and exams can lower your risk of serious oral health problems, including tooth decay and gum disease. These issues can cause pain and sensitivity in the mouth, leading to problems with eating or speaking. Avoiding these issues is especially important for children. For children, caring for their teeth and gums and seeing the dentist every six months sets the foundation for good oral health throughout their lives. 

Professional preventive dental care is vital for maintaining a bright and healthy smile. At-home maintenance is essential, but professional teeth cleanings remove plaque buildup from difficult-to-reach areas. Dentists also offer personalized recommendations to improve your daily oral care routine. 

If you’re interested in learning more about what preventive dentistry can do for you, visit Sun Lakes Family Dental at 10325 E Riggs Rd Ste 109, Sun Lakes, AZ 85248, or call (480) 883-8000.