The Benefits of Preventative Dentistry

Everyone wants to have a perfect smile. But just like most people go to see the doctor only when they feel unwell, some avoid visiting the dentist until they have a problem with their teeth.

Many people believe that good oral hygiene is enough to keep their teeth healthy. Often, these people find themselves on a dental chair, wondering how they could develop dental problems even though they meticulously take care of their teeth. While good at-home dental practices will help keep your teeth healthy, regular dental check-ups are also essential to ensure they remain in tip-top condition.

What is preventative dentistry?

Preventative dentistry refers to procedures that are performed to prevent dental problems and enhance oral health. Preventative dentistry services offered by Slidell dentists include:

Teeth cleaning
X-rays
Comprehensive oral exams
Dental sealants
Fluoride treatments
Oral cancer screening

What are the benefits of preventative dentistry?

Having regular dental check-ups provides the following benefits.

Early diagnosis of dental problems
During a dental check-up, a dentist can detect signs of tooth decay, gum disease, bruxism, oral cancer, or any other oral health problem. Regular dental check-ups will enable you to start treatment in the early stages of the disease before you begin experiencing any serious discomfort.
It prevents the formation of cavities
Regular visits to the dentist will help to prevent the formation of cavities.

No matter how meticulous you are when brushing and flossing your teeth, it’s still hard for you to reach certain parts of your mouth. Food deposits that may build up in these areas over time may result in cavities.

Having your teeth cleaned every six months will remove plaque, tartar, and stains and prevent cavities.

A dentist may also apply dental sealants to prevent food from getting stuck inside fissures and pits or recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen teeth and prevent natural erosion.
It prevents gum disease
Vigorous brushing of teeth can damage your enamel and gums. It might result in bleeding, swelling, and irritation of gums, ultimately leading to gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. During a dental check-up, your dentist can advise on avoiding overly aggressive brushing and recommend treatments for irritated gums.

The buildup of plaque and tartar on your gums and teeth also increases your risk of developing gum disease. Routine teeth cleaning will remove tartar and plaque buildup around and under your gums to prevent gum disease and keep your gums healthy.
It helps to eliminate bad breath
Bad breath is not only unpleasant. It can also be a sign of infection or tooth decay. Regular teeth cleaning will help you determine the cause of your bad breath and treat it.
It helps to avoid serious health problems in the future
Your oral health affects your general health. Poor dental hygiene and tooth decay can put you at risk for all kinds of diseases. This is because poor oral hygiene makes it easier for bacteria to get into your body and bloodstream.

Some of the diseases linked to poor dental health include cancer, diabetes, heart disease, respiratory diseases, and osteoporosis. Premature births and low birth weight are also attributed to poor oral hygiene in pregnant women.
It saves you money
Regular visits to the dentist save you money in the long run. For this reason, many dental insurance plans cover most, if not all, preventative treatments.

Even if you’re not covered by insurance, preventative dentistry is significantly cheaper than restorative dentistry.
It helps to prevent injuries
The last thing you should be worried about when playing your favorite sport is your smile and the safety of your teeth. Wearing a mouthguard is a cheaper and easier way to protect your teeth than having them fixed after an injury.
It helps to improve your smile
Besides improving your oral health, preventative dentistry also helps you attain and maintain a bright and attractive smile.

Are you looking for a dentist in Slidell?

At Fremaux Dental Care, we offer a collection of dental services to our patients. These services include preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry procedures to help you restore and improve your oral health.

Visit our website or call us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced Slidell dentist to start your journey to better oral health.