It’s easy to overlook your oral health until you experience some type of tooth pain or discomfort. However, waiting until you experience pain to take care of your oral health is not the wisest approach. Receiving preventative dentistry regularly is a great way to detect minor problems before they get more serious. Here are a few of the reasons why it’s so important to prevent oral problems with the help of good at-home care and regular visits to your dentist in Billings, MT.
Understanding Preventative Dentistry
Preventive dentistry is designed to prevent common dental problems. There are many different procedures that fall under the category of preventive dentistry, including:
- Fluoride treatments
- Professional teeth cleaning
- Oral cancer screenings
- Protective mouthguards
- Dental sealants
The goal of preventive dentistry is to detect dental problems early on and treat them before they become worse. Regularly visiting your dentist for checkups and cleanings is a great way to avoid expensive and painful treatments in the future. You should also practice good oral hygiene at home, including brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once daily. Avoiding excessive sugary foods and drinks is also a great way to avoid damaging your teeth.
Common Dental Problems
Many common dental problems, including enamel wear, cavities, gum disease and others can be avoided with regular dental visits. All serious dental issues generally start as minor issues that become more severe if treatment is not sought right away. Receiving dental checkups and cleanings twice annually is recommended for maintaining optimal oral health. If you already have a serious oral condition like gum disease, more frequent cleanings and periodontal treatments may be recommended by your dentist.
Contact Us
If you haven’t received preventative dentistry treatment in a while, or if your six-month cleaning is due, please contact us at (406) 206-6556. We’ll help you set up an appointment with Dr. Brian Francis so you can maintain optimal oral health and avoid expensive dental procedures.