Oral health problems don’t discriminate based on age, which is why it’s important for children as well as adults to receive routine preventive care. During these visits, our team’s goal is to diagnose and treat small issues before they have a chance to cause permanent damage to your smile. By doing this, we’re able to help you avoid the need for invasive and costly treatments down the road.
One of the most important parts of your preventive dental care is making sure you keep up with your dental exams and hygiene appointments. The most comprehensive exam occurs on your first visit, and we will recommend follow-up exams at the pace best suited to your particular oral healthcare needs. At every exam we check your teeth for cavities, abnormal wear, or other damage; your gums for any sign of gum disease; your bite for balance or the first symptoms of TMJ disorder; and your entire mouth for the very first signs of oral cancer. All exams and screenings are designed to ensure that problems will be caught early – when they are easier to treat and have much less impact on your oral health.
Maintaining your dental cleaning schedule by visiting with your hygienist at least every 6 months can have a great impact on your overall health. Dental cleanings help keep your teeth sparkling and healthy by removing buildup on teeth that can lead to bleeding gums and infections. Gum infections, also called “periodontal disease”, if left untreated can lead to bone loss, tooth loss and can contribute to heart attacks and strokes. Regular hygiene visits and strong oral habits, like proper brushing and flossing, help take care of more than just your smile.
Fluoride treatments aren’t just for kids. While they do help protect your child’s vulnerable teeth, they also help remineralize teeth of all ages, protecting them against decay and sensitivity. We recommend that everyone have a fluoride treatment at every visit, and we feature Clinpro 5000 home fluoride therapy for better tooth protection.
During an oral cancer screening exam, your dentist looks over the inside of your mouth to check for red or white patches or mouth sores. Using gloved hands, your dentist also feels the tissues in your mouth to check for lumps or other abnormalities. Everyone should have an oral cancer screening annually. If you have dentures or partial dentures, the doctor will examine the tissue underneath. Your doctor and hygienist may also talk to you about ways to reduce your risk of oral cancer, such as quitting smoking, vaping or other forms of tobacco use and avoiding alcohol.
Many Americans grind or clench their teeth and don’t even know it. This is a real problem for natural teeth and can result in costly damage to restorations. Teeth can break, chip, and become severely compromised or worn-down. Our nightguards are custom-made to fit your teeth comfortably and protect your smile from damage. If you grind or clench your teeth, or frequently wake with jaw pain, contact us today.
No one deserves to experience jaw pain and discomfort from Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder. That’s why we offer splint therapy to balance your bite, stop your headaches and upper body pain, and resolve clicking and popping. Additionally, your dentist may also recommend exercises to stretch and strengthen jaw muscles and counsel you to avoid certain behaviors that can aggravate pain such nail biting and leaning on your chin.