Preventing Problems, Promoting Smiles: The Mission of Preventive Dentistry

Prevention is better than cure! As the saying goes it is always advisable to prevent oral problems to avoid the need for extensive dental procedures. Taking care of your teeth and the rest of your mouth is essential to maintain good oral health and avoid oral problems like tooth decay, gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth sensitivity. 

Mill Creek Dentist Forum Dental specialists offer regular dental cleanings as a part of preventive dentistry. Regular oral exams, professional cleanings, and home hygiene practices are considered to be the cornerstone of preventive dentistry. 

What is preventive dentistry?

Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that helps maintain good oral health. It is a combination of regular dental checkups along with developing good habits like brushing, and flossing. Taking care of your teeth must begin as early as childhood and should extend throughout your life. 

What is the main goal of preventive dentistry?

The main goal of preventive dentistry is to prevent oral health problems like cavities, gum disease (gingivitis), halitosis (bad breath), thrush, etc from developing or getting worse. Preventing these conditions can save you money, and time, and improve your quality of life. 

What are the three levels of prevention in dentistry?

There are three main levels of preventive dentistry, including:

• Primary prevention

• • This refers to completely preventing a disease, such as tooth decay, from developing in the first place. 
  • This should begin at a young age.

• Secondary prevention

• • This refers to slowly, reversing, or halting a disease that has begun to develop.
  • If a dentist notices early signs of cavities, that decay can be addressed. 

• Tertiary prevention

• • This refers to slowing or stopping a fully developed disease from spreading or worsening. 

What are the key elements of preventive dentistry?

• Brushing your teeth daily 
• Using a mouth-friendly toothpaste
• Flossing once a day
• Eating a balanced diet that is friendly to you and your microflora 
• Visiting your dentist 1 to 2 times a year for cleaning and examination
• Scheduling oral exams such as oral cancer screening 
• Getting mouth-friendly dental work done 
• Rinsing your mouth out after consuming sugary, starchy, or acidic foods and drinks

Do all dentists offer preventive care?

During regular dental checkups and cleanings, most dentists and dental hygienists will look out for warning signs of common oral health problems. They may educate and counsel you on how to prevent these oral conditions from getting worse. Most dentists also offer dental work to slow or prevent oral disease progression. 

Takeaway 

Preventive dental care is essential for everyone irrespective of age and gender. Letting your dental health slip can lead to several oral health problems, systemic health issues, social dysfunction, and other problems that cost you time, money, and happiness. Remember to visit a dentist at least once a year to lead a happy, and healthy life.