Preventive Dentistry: Benefits Of Preventive Dental Care For Adults And Kids
By: Didsbury Smiles Dental | May 22, 2023
What is Preventive Dentistry?
People can avoid damaging conditions for their teeth and gums with the aid of preventive dental care. Dental procedures that support your ongoing oral health are part of preventive oral care.
A variety of behaviors, routines, and actions including brushing, flossing, eating well, and scheduling routine checkups and cleanings at the dentist—are part of preventive dental care.
Every age group should follow routines to lower their risk of getting cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Preventive dental treatments are beneficial to both children and adults, although many people undervalue their value for young children. Oral hygiene should begin in early childhood and continue throughout a person's lifetime.
Common Preventive Dentistry Services:
A regular oral examination allows a dentist to assess the overall condition of the mouth, teeth, and gums. The dentist will additionally look for early indications of oral cancer, tooth decay, and gum disease.
A checkup at the dentist is advised for everyone at least once every six months by the Canadian Dental Association. Frequent dental checkups can help identify dental problems at their earliest stages and stop more serious problems from arising.
Another crucial preventive dental care service is brushing and flossing your teeth. Plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth and gums by a dental hygienist during a cleaning. Cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues are prevented as a result.
X-rays assist dentists in identifying tooth issues that might not be noticeable during an oral examination. X-rays, for instance, can uncover undiscovered cavities, bone loss, and other oral problems.
What’s Your Role in Preventive Dental Care?
Your preventive dental treatment starts with you. Early adoption of good dental habits can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and gingivitis. The fundamentals of excellent oral health are as follows:
- Use fluoride toothpaste to brush and a soft-bristled toothbrush your teeth at least twice a day, typically in the morning and at night. The toothbrush and toothpaste that is best for you can be suggested by your dentist.
- To remove food that has become lodged between teeth before it turns to plaque, floss daily.
- After flossing, use mouthwash to remove any remaining food particles.
- Eat less acidic meals to protect your teeth's enamel.
- Foods and candies that are hard with bones, seeds or pits that could scratch or chip should be avoided.
- Avoid smoking and using other tobacco products since they might cause cancer and other tooth issues.
- When playing some sports, wear a mouth guard.
- Ask your dentist for a nighttime mouth guard if you grind your teeth at night to help prevent gum recession.
Dentists that Offer Preventive Dental Care
A family dentist or a general dentist should be your first choice if you require regular preventative oral care, such as checkups, X-rays, and teeth cleanings. They can also perform fillings and offer other fundamental dental services.
Your general dentist's guidance in self-dental care is one of his or her most important responsibilities in preventive dentistry. They can help you develop better habits, spot any problems before they worsen, and refer you to dental specialists if you require more extensive treatment.
Pediatric Dentist (children’s dentist):
Pediatric dentistry for children is looked after by pediatric dentists. As their first tooth erupts, the majority of children begin receiving dental treatment. Mostly, a pediatric dentist treats kids all the way up to their adolescent years.
When necessary, a pediatric dentist offers both general dentistry procedures and more specialized care, such as extractions, fillings, and in some circumstances, oral surgery.
Preventive dentistry for children includes promoting preventive oral care habits in children from an early age.
Benefits of Preventive Dentistry:
- Preventive dentistry reduces the chance of getting gum disease, tooth decay, and other more severe dental issues.
- It encourages the use of dental floss and other healthy oral hygiene practices, like cleaning your teeth two to three times per day.
- The treatment and financial costs of oral issues may be reduced with early detection.
- It gives your dentist the opportunity to fully examine your mouth, jaw, neck, etc., to find any issues that might be of discomfort.
- Minimizes oral issues brought on by certain long-term medical disorders.
Preventive Dentistry for Children:
Preventive dentistry for children is essential for establishing good oral hygiene habits early on and preventing future dental problems. Children should begin visiting the dentist regularly within six months of the eruption of their first tooth, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Preventive dental care for children typically includes regular dental check-ups, teeth cleaning, and fluoride treatments. By prioritizing preventive dental care for children, parents can help ensure their children maintain healthy smiles for years to come.
Benefits of Preventive Dental Care for Children
Minimize the Risk of Tooth Decay:
The bacteria in plaque build up on your child's teeth, and they release an acid that weakens the tooth enamel, which can result in cavities. To reduce your child's risk of developing cavities, preventive dental care helps eradicate this harmful bacteria.
Your teeth's enamel that covers one’s teeth has to be healthy in order to protect them. By keeping your enamel healthy and strong, preventive dental care will keep your teeth free of bacteria, plaque, and cavities.
The plaque under the gumline can cause gum disease, which has a number of negative symptoms like bleeding and receding gums. Pediatric dentists are trained and equipped to clean beneath your child's gum line, which can help stave off gum disease.
Your child's breath will also improve with preventive dental care. Plaque, bacteria, and food debris need to be removed for the mouth to be cleaner and healthier. They can feel more confident and energized throughout the day as a result.
Preventive Dental Care Habits at Home
Brush your Teeth with your Kids:
You can teach your kids about proper brushing techniques and help them understand its importance. Make sure they follow it and brush regularly.
Help Younger Children Brush Their Teeth:
Younger children might find it difficult to brush their teeth by themselves. You can help them brush their teeth properly.
Instruct Children on the Importance of Flossing:
Flossing is often overlooked. Make sure you explain the importance of flossing to your children and instruct and help them to floss properly.
Opt for healthier food to help promote healthier gums and teeth for your children.
Do Dental Plans Cover Preventive Dental Services?
Only two tooth cleanings per year are reimbursed by insurance, i.e. once every six months.
Fluoride treatments are considered preventive only for kids under a specific age.
Just a few views and specific types of X-rays, often bitewing, are covered as routine or preventive procedures.
The Cost Of Preventive Dental Care
Preventive dental care might be completely covered depending on the kind of dental plan you select. Oral examinations, teeth cleanings, and regular X-rays are all part of preventive dental care.
There are frequent restrictions on how many you can obtain annually. It's crucial that you comprehend the specifics of your coverage since if you go over certain limits, you can have to pay out of pocket.
Why Choose Didsbury Smiles Dental for Preventive Dental Care?
For individuals looking for preventive care dentist in Didsbury
, Didsbury Smiles Dental is a great option.
Didsbury Smiles Dental is a walk-in dental clinic and dental office in Didsbury, AB.
We provide high-quality preventive oral care providing personalized care and helping patients maintain healthy smiles. With a focus on preventive oral care, Didsbury Smiles Dental can help patients of all ages achieve optimal oral health.
