What is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is one way to help keep and maintain a healthy smile. Instead of being reactive about your oral health care (taking care of problems as they occur), preventive dentistry encompasses the idea of being more proactive about your oral health. This means that by taking care of your teeth, you can avoid having more and more expensive dental work done because of the fewer problems that may occur by regularly caring for your mouth.
Preventive dentistry is one way to avoid oral diseases that result in loss of teeth and the need for expensive oral surgery. It is typically taught to individuals as soon as they start visiting the dentist when they are approximately two to three years old. Pediatric dentists focus on teaching children preventive dentistry in the hopes that they will practice good oral health habits and have minimal problems with their teeth. Many adults need to be reminded of good oral health practices as well to avoid expensive surgeries and procedures.
Preventive dentistry includes a number of habits that should be a part of everyone’s daily lifestyle. Brushing at least twice daily and flossing well at least once a day is recommended, as is using fluoride toothpaste to prevent cavities and gum disease. Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings to address any potential problems is also recommended. If an individual has gum disease and lets it go without going to a dentist for a checkup, they have the chance of losing their teeth and requiring oral or gum surgery to fix and restore their smile with restorative and cosmetic dentistry.
Dr. Arellano can help you pave the way to a healthy smile. If you are in the San Francisco area and want to learn how to be more proactive in your dental care, call Dr. Arellano and schedule a consultation appointment to start taking charge of your health care.
