Taking proper precautions is an important part of maintaining good oral health. Most people know that brushing and flossing are two important oral hygiene habits that help prevent plaque and cavities. However, you can also get preventive dental services and treatments at a dentist’s office. Visiting the dentist twice a year is part of taking care of your dental health, so it’s important to find a local dentist in Mobile, AL that you’re comfortable with. Here are some preventive care options that dentists offer.
examine
Regular dental exams can help detect dental problems early, prevent gum disease, and monitor and maintain existing dental work. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and oral health. If necessary, your dentist will also take X-rays for a more in-depth evaluation and perform oral cancer screening. If the dentist discovers any problems, you’ll get oral hygiene tips and a treatment plan. Regular checkups also give you the opportunity to ask questions about treatments or procedures that may be of interest to you, such as cosmetic dentistry (braces, veneers, and tooth whitening) or tooth replacement solutions (dental implants, crowns, and dentures).
preventive cleaning
Preventative cleaning is another part of a regular inspection. Typically, a dentist or hygienist will clean the tooth surface above the gum line and use a scaler to remove any buildup of plaque or tartar. They remove any removable stains and provide a final polish to your teeth before completing treatment. Occasional professional cleanings are essential to fix problems that regular brushing and flossing can’t fix. They help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.
periodontal treatment
Periodontal disease is a serious form of gum disease that occurs when plaque and tartar build up on the teeth. Over time, it can lead to infection and tooth loss. Dentists typically offer two forms of preventive cleaning to combat periodontal disease:
Periodontal cleaning (or deep tooth cleaning)
Deep dental cleaning targets bacteria deep below the gum line. This is also called scaling and root planning. Typically, a dental care professional removes tartar and hardened plaque that extends deep below the gum line and to the base of the pockets. Root planning involves smoothing the root surface to encourage gum reattachment and prevent bacterial growth.
Periodontal maintenance cleaning
This specialized cleaning is designed to prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease. This is a follow-up procedure after a periodontal deep cleaning to help maintain gum health.
