Why Prevention Is Important
When it comes to conditions affecting your teeth and gums, early detection is key. With early diagnosis and treatment, dental issues can be addressed proactively, before they worsen. In addition to causing pain and discomfort, these issues can compromise both your dental and overall health. In fact, gum disease has been linked to conditions including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Detecting and treating problems early can also help you avoid the need for more invasive and costly procedures, saving you a tremendous amount of time and money in the future.
What to Expect during a
Preventative Dentistry Checkup
Regular checkups are just as important as daily brushing and flossing. The frequency of your appointments will be determined by your dentist according to your specific needs. Most patients require examinations twice a year. While many patients can maintain the health of their teeth and gums with six-month cleanings, those who are more susceptible to gum disease or tooth decay may require more frequent visits. It is common for those with periodontal issues to have their teeth cleaned every three to four months. During each checkup, we provide:
- Oral health assessment: Dr. Hancock will use the intraoral camera and other tools to look for issues such as cavities and gum disease.
- Teeth cleanings: During your routine cleaning, the hygienist will remove all plaque and tartar from your teeth. We also offer scaling and root planing (removal of plaque and tartar from below the gumline) for patients who have mild to moderate periodontal disease.
- Oral cancer screenings: Regular oral cancer screenings can allow your doctor to detect the condition in the earliest stages, when it is most treatable. This simple assessment takes only minutes, but it can save your life. That is why Dr. Hancock performs an oral cancer screening during every routine visit.
- Patient education: Based on the state of your smile, our team can identify room for improvement in your daily brushing and flossing routine. Our hygienists can teach you the proper techniques and recommend the most effective oral hygiene products. We recommend that patients only use toothbrushes with soft bristles in order to avoid damage to the gums and enamel.
Through proper at-home care and regular checkups, you can protect your oral health for many years to come.
Other Treatments
In addition to the treatments performed during each routine checkup, we also offer sealants and fluoride treatments. Since children have weaker tooth enamel, these are widely considered treatments for young patients, but they can benefit adults as well.
Bacteria weakens tooth enamel. This process is known as demineralization. When used in conjunction with brushing and flossing, topical fluoride treatments can remineralize the enamel and make your teeth less prone to cavities.
The premolars and molars have deep fissures and grooves that can harbor bacteria. Dental sealants can be placed in these grooves to prevent buildup.
Learn More about Preventative Dentistry
Dr. Hancock is personally invested in helping patients achieve their healthiest smiles. Through proper at-home care and regular checkups, you can protect your oral health for many years to come. To find out more about the preventative treatments we offer, schedule a consultation. Contact us online or call us at (615) 383-0132.
Related to This
- General Dentistry Overview
- Root Canal Therapy
- TMJ Disorder Treatment
- Professional Hygienic Cleanings
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Emergency Dental Services
- Sedation Dentistry
- Dental Technology
- Gum Disease
- Mouth Guards
- Gum Recession
- Chronic Bad Breath
- Scaling and Root Planing