Hello again, Plano! Today brings you the newest entry in the dental health blog of the Plano Smile Studio. We want to take today’s blog post to talk about one of most important services: Preventive Dentistry.
Preventative Dentistry starts with educating yourself about the dangers of tooth decay, and ways to lower your risk of tooth decay. Did you know, for example, that older adults have a heighten risk of cavities?
As you age, your gums recede much like your hairline. This is a natural process and one which cannot entirely be prevented. The process leaves more of your teeth exposed to bacteria, and much of this area may be in places where you’re not used to brushing. Cavities don’t just happen to kids and teenagers; in fact anyone with natural teeth in their mouth is at risk for cavities.
The Dangers of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a progressive disease. What starts as some undigested food on your teeth turns into plaque. Plaque can cause cavities or cause a build-up of tartar on your teeth. Tartar can cause Gum Disease and other problems. Untreated cavities can eventually kill teeth, or force the removal of dental pulp and nerves inside of them.
Decay happens little by little, every time you eat food or drink a beverage. As you eat, little bits of food cling to your teeth. This bits can be so small that they’re not noticeably by the naked eye. But they’re there, attracting all sorts of bacteria in your mouth.
The bacteria accumulates a turns into a sort of acidic slime. This acidic slime is called plaque. Plaque looks bad on your teeth and leaves nasty stains. Plaque also slowly dissolves the enamel of your teeth, leaving painful holes called cavities.
Cavities, also called Dental Caries, are essentially small holes in your teeth. Your teeth is covered in a layer of protective enamel. When a cavity develops, the inner and more vulnerable parts of teeth are exposed to bacteria and decay.
Exposed dental pulp, dental dentin, and dental nerves can be incredibly painful. They make you suffer from a toothache, and hurt whenever they come into contact with hot beverages or cold beverages. This sort of decay often requires a removal of the affected dental pulp and nerves, called a root canal.
Root canals aren’t painful; root canals are also safe and routine. However, it is easier to prevent the need to have a root canal. This can save you money and time on our office.
The Benefits of Preventive Dentistry
Preventive Dentistry can stop tooth decay right in its tracks. During a routine appointment at the Plano Smile Studio, you can get your teeth cleaned and your mouth examined for decay. We also offer a wide arrange of other Preventive Dentistry services, which would like to explain in further detail.
Teeth Cleaning: During a teeth cleaning, a skilled member of our top-notch dental hygiene team will carefully and skillfully remove built up tartar and plaque from your teeth. The American Dental Association recommends that you have your teeth cleaned in this manner at least twice a year. The removal of plaque and tartar prevent cavities and gum disease from developing.
Dental Exam: During a dental exam we will screen your teeth for any and all signs of decay. We also offer state-of-the-art digital x-rays which emit far less radiation than traditional x-ray devices; these digital radiographs allow us to notice any early signs of decay. In addition, we screen you for gum disease and Oral Cancer. We’ll perform a bite analysis and let you know about any corrective or cosmetic services which could benefit you.
Fluoride Treatments: A fluoride treatment is an excellent way to prevent tooth decay. We offer fluoride treatments after your teeth cleaning. Fluoride works to strengthen your enamel, and protect you from cavities.
Dental Sealants: A dental sealant is a quick and painless resin which can applied to the pits and ridges of your teeth. These sealants help prevent plaque and tartar from building up on these vulnerable areas of your teeth.
Make An Appointment
Are you ready you ready to get serious about your oral health and dental hygiene? At Plano Smile Studio we offer excellent Preventive Dentistry services, as well as a wide array of Cosmetic Dentistry services. Click here to schedule an appointment at Plano Smile Studio in Plano
