Preserve Your Oral Health and Minimize Your Risk of Complications with Preventive Dentistry
Several factors contribute to decay, tooth loss, periodontal disease, and other conditions. The Art of Dentistry provides advanced, safe, and effective preventive dentistry treatments to help minimize your chance of developing serious dental conditions by maintaining good oral health thorough preventive checkups and examinations.
During your cleaning, one of our hygienists will remove plaque and tartar from along the gum line to prevent the accumulation of harmful bacteria. The hygienist will also clean and polish the surfaces of your teeth, and floss around each tooth. Dr. Sol Weiss will perform an in-depth examination to check for damage, such as decay, chips, or cracks in the teeth, and evaluate any restorations in the mouth.
Preventive dentistry encompasses professional dental care and practicing good hygiene at home. There are several things you can do at home to keep your mouth healthy and bacteria at bay:
Brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, staying hydrated, and minimizing your consumption of sugary and acidic foods will help to ensure optimal health. Even meticulous oral hygiene needs to be combined with professional, in-office care. Exams, cleanings, and oral cancer screenings represent the most basic preventive measures.
Our Dentists are trained to identify soft tissue abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer. The disease typically responds well to treatment in its earliest stages, which is why it is important to schedule preventive checkups with twice per year.
The frequency of dental check-ups and cleanings can vary depending on individual needs and oral health conditions. However, in general, it is recommended to schedule dental check-ups and cleanings every six months. This interval allows your dentist to monitor your oral health, detect any early signs of problems, and provide preventive care to maintain optimal oral hygiene.
For some individuals with specific oral health concerns, such as gum disease or a higher risk of cavities, more frequent visits may be necessary. Your dentist will assess your oral health and provide personalized recommendations on how often you should schedule check-ups and cleanings.
Keep in mind that regular dental visits not only involve cleanings but also comprehensive dental examinations. These examinations help identify any dental issues, such as tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, or bite alignment problems, which may require additional treatment or intervention.
The duration of a dental check-up and cleaning appointment can vary depending on various factors, including the specific procedures involved, your oral health condition, and the individual dental practice. However, on average, a dental check-up and cleaning appointment typically lasts between 45 minutes to 1 hour.
During the appointment, you can expect the following general timeframe for each component: dental examination and professional teeth cleaning.
Please note that these timeframes are approximate and can vary from one dental practice to another. If you have specific concerns or if additional procedures, such as dental X-rays or specific treatments, are needed, the overall appointment time may be longer.
Dental X-rays, also known as dental radiographs, are an important diagnostic tool used during dental check-ups. While they are not typically taken at every check-up, they play a crucial role in assessing your oral health. Here’s why dental X-rays are necessary: detection of hidden issues, early diagnosis and treatment, evaluation of tooth and jaw development, and comprehensive assessment of oral health.
It’s important to note that dental X-rays are performed with minimal radiation exposure, and modern techniques and equipment further minimize radiation risks. Dentists follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) to ensure that the benefits of taking X-rays outweigh the potential risks.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children should have their first dental check-up by the age of 1 or within six months after their first tooth erupts. This initial dental visit, often referred to as a “well-baby visit,” allows the dentist to assess the child’s oral health and provide guidance on proper oral care for infants and toddlers.
Starting dental check-ups early helps establish a positive dental experience for children and allows the dentist to monitor their oral development, detect any early signs of dental problems, and provide preventive care.
The early dental visits for young children usually involve a gentle examination of the child’s mouth, checking for any signs of tooth decay or other oral issues. The dentist or dental hygienist will also provide guidance on oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing techniques, fluoride use, and diet recommendations.
Have questions? Contact us at 416-927-7677 or send us your request and we will get back to you right away.