Preventive Care

Most people don’t connect their mouths to the rest of their bodies, but the truth is, your mouth is the gateway to your body. The link between oral infections and other diseases in the body is becoming well documented and accepted within the health care community. Our dental health care team is committed to providing you with useful information and clinical services to help you maintain your oral health, as well as your overall physical health. We, as dental health care practitioners, have a distinctive clinical and educational role to play in promoting good oral health for a lifetime.

Our dental team will take the time to assess, plan and implement treatments, and evaluate your individual oral care needs. By tracking changes in your gums, we are able to assess the health of your oral environment and plan a course of treatment that will help prevent disease that may affect your physical well-being.

Preventive dental care is important throughout your life, no matter what your age. By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular check-ups with your dentist, you can help keep your smile bright and healthy for many years to come. Here are a few simple ways that you can prevent the build-up of plaque and cavities:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue; this will remove any extra plaque causing food particles and help keep your breath fresh!
• Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
• Eat a balanced diet and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese or fruit can help keep your smile healthy.
• Remember to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist every six months, or as recommended, for a professional teeth cleaning.
• Ask your dentist about dental sealants, a protective plastic coating that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
• If you play sports, be sure to ask your dentist about special mouth guards designed to protect your smile.

If it’s been six months since your last dental checkup, then it’s time to contact our office and schedule your next appointment!