Preventative Dentistry

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Central Park Dental & Orthodontics is committed to maintaining healthy teeth so that you can enjoy a beautiful smile for a lifetime. Our caring dentist in Mansfield, TX, offers preventative and family dentistry in a welcoming environment to make sure your loved ones are taken care of.

What is Preventative Dentistry?

Preventative dentistry is the practice of caring for your teeth to keep them healthy. This type of dentistry focuses on preventing dental problems before they occur rather than simply treating them when they do. By participating in preventative dental care, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and avoid costly and time-consuming dental procedures in the future.

Preventative dentistry includes a variety of treatments that help maintain and improve your oral health over the course of your life. These treatments, including thorough exams, x-rays, and cleanings, are the key to disease prevention. 

We recommend our patients visit us every six months to maintain their preventative dental care. During these appointments, you will have a comprehensive dental exam and cleaning to check for any signs of decay or damage and to ensure that your smile is healthy. You may need to visit our office more frequently, depending on your dental needs.

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Preventative Dentistry Treatments

At our dental office in Mansfield, TX, we offer a range of preventative dental services to help our patients maintain healthy smiles. These services include:

  • Cleanings
  • Exams & X-rays
  • Fluoride Treatment
  • Oral Cancer Screening
  • Periodontal Maintenance
  • Sealants

Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are a vital part of preventative dentistry. During a cleaning, one of our trained dental hygienists will remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from your teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up on your teeth and cause tooth decay and gum disease if not removed regularly.

Our hygienist will use special instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and floss to clean between your teeth. They may also polish your teeth to remove surface stains and leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean.

Exams & X-rays

Dental exams and x-rays are another essential part of preventative dentistry. During a dental exam, one of our experienced dentists will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and mouth to check for any signs of problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or oral cancer. They may also check your bite and the alignment of your teeth to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Dental x-rays are used to help our dentists see inside your teeth and get a better view of the structures beneath the surface of your gums. X-rays can help our dentists detect problems that may not be visible during a visual exam, such as cavities between teeth or jawbone infections.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is a natural mineral that can help strengthen your teeth and protect them against tooth decay. Fluoride treatments are often recommended for patients with a high risk of tooth decay, such as children, seniors, and those with dry mouth.

A small amount of fluoride gel or foam is applied to your teeth during a fluoride treatment. The fluoride is left on your teeth for a short time before being rinsed off. Fluoride treatments can be done in our office but you can also practice fluoride treatment at home with the use of fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, or other products.

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a severe and potentially life-threatening disease that affects the mouth, throat, and other parts of the head and neck. It is important to detect oral cancer in its early stages, as this can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.

Our dental office in Mansfield, TX, offers oral cancer screenings as part of our preventative dental care services. During an oral cancer screening, one of our dentists will carefully examine your mouth, throat, and neck for any signs of oral cancer. This may include looking for red or white patches, lumps or bumps, or any other abnormalities.

Periodontal Maintenance

Periodontal maintenance is a type of dental care that is focused on keeping the gums healthy. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to protect them from tooth decay and cavities. They are made of a plastic material that is applied to the grooves and pits of the teeth, forming a barrier to prevent bacteria and food particles from causing decay. Dental sealants are quick, easy to apply, and can last several years with proper care. They are an effective preventative dental care option, especially for those at a higher risk of tooth decay, such as children and seniors.

Preventative Dentistry FAQs

Q: How often should I visit the dentist for a preventative check-up?
A: We recommend visiting your dentist in Mansfield for a preventative check-up at least twice a year. These regular visits allow Dr. Jung and our dental team to monitor your oral health, perform professional cleanings, and provide guidance on maintaining good dental practices at home. However, some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their individual dental health needs.

Q: What does a typical preventative dental appointment include?
A: A typical appointment includes a thorough dental examination, professional teeth cleaning, and possibly digital X-rays if necessary. During the exam, Dr. Jung checks for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. The cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar buildup and polishing your teeth. We also provide personalized advice on improving your at-home dental care routine.

Q: What are the best at-home oral hygiene practices?
A: Effective at-home oral hygiene practices include brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily to remove plaque between teeth, and using mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen breath. It’s also important to maintain a healthy diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods that can harm tooth enamel. Regularly changing your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed is also recommended.

Q: Can preventative dentistry help with bad breath?
A: Yes, preventative dentistry can play a significant role in managing and preventing bad breath, or halitosis. Regular cleanings remove the buildup of plaque and tartar, which are often sources of bad breath. Additionally, during your visits, we can identify and treat any underlying issues, such as gum disease or dry mouth, that might be contributing to bad breath.

Q: Is preventative dentistry suitable for children?
A: Absolutely! Preventative dentistry is essential for children to ensure the healthy development of their teeth and teach them good oral hygiene habits. Services like fluoride treatments and dental sealants are particularly beneficial for children, helping to protect their teeth from decay. Regular check-ups also allow us to monitor the growth and alignment of their teeth.

Q: How does preventative dentistry save money in the long run?
A: Regularly maintaining your oral health through preventative dentistry significantly reduces the risk of developing serious dental issues requiring more complex and expensive treatments. Early detection and treatment of minor problems prevent them from escalating into more severe conditions, saving you from costly procedures and extensive dental work.

Q: What should I do if I have dental anxiety but need preventative care?
A: At Central Park Dental, we understand dental anxiety and strive to create a comfortable, stress-free environment for our patients. We encourage you to communicate your fears with our Mansfield dentist so that we can accommodate your needs and provide support throughout your visit. Sedation options are also available to help make your experience as comfortable and anxiety-free as possible.

Call Today to Get Started on a Healthier Smile

Preventative dentistry is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy smile. By participating in regular cleanings, exams, and other preventive dental care services, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and avoid costly and time-consuming dental procedures in the future.

If you are located in Mansfield, TX, and are in need of preventative dental care, we invite you to visit our dental office. Our experienced team of Mansfield dental experts is here to provide you with the highest quality of care. Request an appointment online or give us a call today to get started.

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