Preventative Dentistry

Preventative dentistry is caring for and preventing dental issues before they happen. This can include both at-home dental care and routine dental checkups.  

At-home dental care includes brushing your teeth at home after meals or at least twice daily. You should also floss regularly. While doing these, you should make sure you use the proper brushing and flossing technique. All these will help to prevent plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause cavities.   

Routine dental checkups are when you visit our dentist regularly at Dentistry Downtown. During these appointments, our dentist in Huntsville, AL will perform a routine exam and check for any dental issues during your appointment. Then, our dentist can demonstrate good brushing and flossing techniques. 

Preventative Dentistry and Oral Health

Preventative dentistry means protecting your oral health by preventing common dental issues. Routine dental exams and cleanings will keep your teeth bright and healthy. These appointments allow your dentist in Huntsville, AL to identify and treat dental issues before they cause extensive damage. For example, a dentist can diagnose and treat dental problems like gum disease and tooth decay. These appointments also allow your dentist to provide crucial preventative care treatments that help protect your smile. 

Why Is Preventative Dentistry Necessary?

Preventing Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the most common dental issue and is preventable with proper care. When plaque is not removed regularly, it hardens and turns into tartar or calculus. The bacteria in plaque and tartar cause tooth decay, which can lead to serious dental health issues. Call us to learn more.

Preventing Gum Disease

Several factors can cause gum problems. Some patients may develop gum disease due to hereditary factors that make their gums bleed easily. Others may have gum disease due to high-sugar diets or frequent snacking, which weakens the teeth and gums. However, the most common cause of gum disease is poor dental hygiene.  

Neglecting your teeth can lead to plaque buildup over time. If plaque is allowed to remain on the teeth, it can cause the gums to become irritated and inflamed, signs that gum disease has set in. If left untreated, gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, causing pockets to form between the teeth and gums. If gum disease is left untreated, it can cause tooth loss, bone loss, and even heart disease.

Preventing Problems With Your Jaw

Preventative dentistry also involves treatments for several conditions that could involve your jaw. For example, if you suffer from chronic headaches or migraines, a dentist in Huntsville, AL may recommend an examination of your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Poorly fitting dentures or misalignment of the teeth or jaw can cause the TMJ to overcompensate, which can cause tension in the muscles of the jaw and face. This tension can lead to headaches. 

With regular dental checkups, you can address dental issues early. For the best dental care, visit Dentistry Downtown at 606 Davis Circle Southwest, Huntsville, AL 35801, or call (256) 533-1131.