Why Preventive Dentistry Is So Important

Preventive dentistry refers to any dental procedures, screenings, and treatments that prevent future dental problems. This includes brushing and flossing, routine exams and cleanings, dental X-rays, and oral cancer screenings. 

Not only does preventive dentistry help keep your teeth healthy, but preventive dentistry also can have a positive impact on your overall health. Here, Dr. Afshin Vahadi and Dr. Vafa Mirshams showcase five reasons why preventive dentistry is so important. 

1. Preventive dentistry prevents tooth decay

Plaque is the root cause of so many dental problems. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that coats your teeth, and when the bacteria produces acid, it can eat away at your teeth. Plaque can lead to tartar, tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and tooth loss (from severe decay or gum disease). Preventive dentistry practices like good at-home oral care and routine dental cleanings can help keep plaque at bay, which reduces your risk of decay and gum disease.

Here at Lone Star Dental Care, with offices in Plano and Frisco, Texas, we offer routine cleanings for every member of your family, including the littlest ones. 

2. Preventive care leads to early detection

Even though preventive dentistry helps prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay, sometimes issues pop up between cleanings. Preventive care, such as regular dental exams, allows Dr. Vahadi and Dr. Mirshams to spot small problems before they escalate into bigger ones. 

For example, if our team spots a small crack in your tooth, we can repair it before it widens or becomes infected. Repairing a small chip is easier (and faster) than treating a severely cracked and/or infected tooth.

3. Screenings help spot serious conditions

Oral cancer screenings are another important aspect of preventive dentistry. During an oral cancer screening, we monitor for any suspicious lesions, sores that won’t heal, lumps, bumps, or white patches. As with any cancer, early detection of oral cancer improves your treatment outcomes and enables you to get the care you need as soon as possible.

4. Preventive dentistry affects your whole body

Your oral health isn’t isolated from the rest of your body. In fact, poor oral health, especially periodontitis, can increase your risk of heart disease. In addition to heart disease, gum disease is also linked to diabetes, osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and even rheumatoid arthritis.

5. Preventive care saves you time and money

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that adults and children receive two dental cleanings per year, although some individuals may need more frequent care. Periodontal maintenance, for example, may be scheduled in 3-month intervals. That being said, routine care still saves you time and money. Skipping preventive care could cause a cascade of issues that require multiple treatments to correct. 

Get started with preventive care today

As family dentists, we know that preventive-care habits start early. Receiving preventive services for yourself models good oral habits for your children. Choosing a family dentist consolidates your entire family’s preventive dentistry under one roof. 

To get started, give us a call or simply use our online scheduling tool.