« Back

The Value of Preventive Dental Care

May 15, 2023

---

Good oral health is not only essential for functions such as eating and speaking, but it also enhances our ability to smile and show emotions. These are simply a few reasons why maintaining healthy teeth is important, and the key to doing so is preventive dental care.

Preventive Care and the Benefits

The main focus of preventive dental care is to avoid oral health issues. By implementing proactive steps, you can minimize the risk of a variety of potential problems and can enjoy the perks of a happy smile. 

Some benefits include:

• Reducing the risk of cavities
• Limiting chances of gum disease
• Protecting enamel  

When dental issues are detected and treated early, not only does your smile benefit but so does your wallet!

What Preventive Care in Action Looks Like

At Home Care

The bulk of preventive dental care happens at home. Keeping up with a solid oral hygiene routine is paramount in ensuring that your gums and teeth are remaining healthy. This routine should include brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing once daily. These efforts will reduce plaque build-up and remove any other food particles that might have been trapped. 

It is also important to consider the foods and beverages that you consume. Sugary or acidic drinks and snacks can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums, so be sure to have these in moderation. 

Make Dentist Visits a Priority 

While creating a consistent at-home routine is an essential part of preventative care, you should never skip out on getting assistance from the professionals. Incorporating regular cleanings and check-ups are the cornerstone of a healthy smile.

Teeth Cleanings and Exams

Even if you’re taking phenomenal care of your teeth through regular brushing and flossing, there is always a chance for the plaque on your teeth to turn to tartar. When this happens, only a dental professional is able to remove this build-up. At an appointment, any present plaque or tartar is gently scraped away leaving your teeth in a prime position to keep gum disease and other dental issues at bay.

Along with a dental cleaning, an exam is performed. During the exam, any potential problems can be spotted such as tooth decay or enamel erosion and even oral cancer. 

Dental X-Rays

In addition to dental cleanings and exams, dental X-rays are also taken to see what is happening underneath the surface of your teeth. These are often taken once a year and provide a deeper look into issues that cannot be seen by the regular eye. 

If it’s been more than six months since your last appointment, schedule your next dental cleaning and exam at Beall Dental Center!