Preventive Dentistry
Preventive Dentistry
PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY
At Clovedent Family Dentistry, we provide preventive dentistry services for patients in Toronto and Etobicoke. These services include a combination of daily at-home oral hygiene habits as well as regular dental cleanings and check-ups at our Toronto office to keep your smile healthy and strong.
Unfortunately, many people neglect proper dental care. If left undetected, tooth decay and deterioration can lead to necessary restorative treatments such as dental implants and crowns or a full mouth reconstruction. If not diagnosed early, gum disease can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and stroke. Preventive dentistry is an important component of protecting your total oral health and avoiding costly future dental repairs.
ELEMENTS OF PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY
Good preventive dentistry practices happen inside and outside of the dental office. There are several facets of effective preventive dentistry.
Dental Hygiene
Even though your dentist can help safeguard your oral health with specialized procedures and techniques, daily dental hygiene is one of the most important parts of preventive dentistry. Flossing and brushing 2 times a day is recommended to prevent tooth decay and disease. Without these daily practices, plaque and tarter can quickly accumulate and lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Kamalbake and his team recommend a dental check-up once every 6 months to remove plaque that toothbrush and floss alone cannot reach.
Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays are an important part of preventive dentistry as well. X-rays can detect cavities, some tumors, bone infections and other diseases which can sometimes be difficult or even impossible to see with the natural eye. In our office, we offer digital X-rays to reduce your exposure to radiation.
Sealants
A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating applied over your back teeth that has small grooves and indentations where plaque can hide and your toothbrush can’t reach. Covering the grooves helps prevent tooth decay. Dental sealants are most often applied as preventative dentistry products for children.
Diet
A nutritious diet can be an important element of preventive dentistry as well. Foods that are high in sugars can quickly attack the teeth after they enter your mouth. Many dentists, including Dr. Kamalbake, recommend avoiding soft drinks and sugary foods in addition to brushing your teeth as soon as possible if you do eat sugary foods.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride, a mineral that plays an important part in preventive dentistry, strengthens teeth and prevents tooth decay. Many dentists recommend toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain fluoride for more frequent use.