The dentist in South Reno, NV, and their team of family dentists offer preventive treatments to help improve your oral health. These dental specialists strive to imbibe good oral hygiene habits in their patients because these form the building blocks of good oral health. It is important to keep track of your oral wellness to prevent dental problems in the future. This greatly avoids 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. Regular oral exams, professional cleanings, and home hygiene practices are considered to be the cornerstone of preventive dentistry.
What is meant by 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 scope of preventive dentistry?
The main goal of preventive dentistry is to prevent oral 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 levels of prevention in preventive 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 gradually 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 major elements of preventive dentistry?
The key elements of preventive dentistry
- Brushing your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tooth-friendly toothpaste
- Flossing once a day
- Eating a balanced diet that is beneficial to you and your microflora
- Using appropriate mouthwash
- Visiting your dentist 1 to 2 times a year for cleaning and examination
- Scheduling dental exams such as oral cancer screening
- Rinsing your mouth out after consuming sugary, starchy, or acidic foods and drinks
Preventive dental care is essential for everyone irrespective of age and gender. Neglecting your dental health can lead to several oral problems, systemic health issues, social dysfunction, and other problems that cost you time, money, and comfort. Remember to visit a dentist at least once a year to lead a healthy life.
