Preventive dentistry is one of the best ways to protect not only your smile but also your overall health and well-being. Even if it's been a while since you've visited your dentist, it's never too late to start! Building a relationship with a dentist you trust is essential to protecting your general health; after all, your dentist is an integral member of your healthcare team.
In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about preventive dentistry; what it is, what to expect at your appointments, why it's essential, and most of all, how it protects your health and benefits every aspect of your life. Let's get started!
Preventive Dentistry: What It Is and What to Expect
Preventive dental care refers to your bi-annual appointments with your dentist when you have a professional teeth cleaning and examination. Your dentist also typically takes x-rays once a year to internally see any concerns that might be happening with your teeth. Other preventive dental procedures could include fluoride treatments or dental sealants that help protect your teeth from decay and cavities.
When you consistently visit your dentist every six months for dental cleanings and checkups, these appointments are very comfortable and straightforward. They also help save you time and money because your Troy dentist can detect any concerns with your teeth early before they become more significant problems.
What Happens During a Professional Teeth Cleaning and Dental Checkup in Troy, NY?
When you see our hygienist, they will remove the plaque buildup you haven't successfully brushed or flossed away at home. Unfortunately, plaque hardens into tartar when it's not removed daily, and tartar can only be scraped away with dental hand tools. Removing plaque and tartar buildup protects your teeth from decay and your gums from developing inflammation, known as gum disease.
Your hygienist polishes your teeth and will review your home care routine with you to make suggestions for improving your at-home oral health care.
Next, Dr. Chi will thoroughly examine you for early signs of problems like tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. In the dental world, prevention is the key to excellent oral health. If you're feeling pain or discomfort, the damage is already there. Dental exams aim to catch problems early, making it easier, more comfortable, and less expensive to treat.
Why Routine Teeth Cleanings and Exam Are So Important
Besides protecting your dental health from uncomfortable problems, routine exams safeguard your overall health. This is because there are clear links between gum disease and other non-dental, systemic health concerns like:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Dementia
- Complications during pregnancy
The bacteria that causes the infection in your gums can also contribute to other health concerns by traveling through your bloodstream. Preventive teeth cleanings and checkups consistently protect your overall well-being when we can detect and treat problems like gum disease as early as possible.
Is It Time for Your Next Dental Checkup and Teeth Cleaning in Troy, NY?
Fear not if it's been a while since your last dental visit! Dr. Chi and his team are not here to judge but to welcome and meet you wherever your oral health is.
Book your next teeth cleaning and exam online or call our team at (518) 273-0089 and speak with one of our friendly team members. We look forward to helping you enjoy optimum dental and general health!