Preventive Dentistry

Garland, Texas

Taking care of your teeth goes beyond just having a dazzling smile; it is also essential for maintaining your overall health and well-being. Preventive dentistry plays a crucial role in promoting oral health by focusing on early detection and intervention to avoid dental issues in the future. At Buckingham Family Dental, we strive to empower you to maintain a bright, healthy smile for life!

What Is the Importance of Preventive Dental Care?

Preventive dentistry places significant emphasis on proactive measures to prevent dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Rather than waiting for issues to arise, we encourage a preventative approach that saves you from potential discomfort, pain, and costly treatments in the future. Most dental insurance plans cover your twice-yearly preventive visits to your dentist because of their importance in maintaining optimal oral health.

Aside from maintaining a healthy smile, preventive dentistry safeguards your overall health. Studies show a strong link between periodontal disease and many serious health problems, like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, pregnancy complications, and more. Preventing dental disease will help boost your overall health.

What Are Preventive Dental Services Offered by Buckingham Family Dental?

The following are some of the preventive services offered by Buckingham Family Dental:

Dental Checkups: Regular dental exams are at the heart of preventive dentistry. Visiting Buckingham Family Dental for comprehensive and periodic examinations allows us to detect any dental issues or concerns early on when they’re easiest to treat. Early intervention can prevent simple issues from becoming major ones, avoiding the need for costly and invasive treatments in the future.

Dental Cleanings: Professional cleanings are an essential component of preventive dentistry. During your appointment, our dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gum line and floss and polish your teeth, leaving them clean and bright. At Buckingham Family Dental, we use an ultrasonic scaler for quick and comfortable cleanings. Routine teeth cleanings have been shown to reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities, promoting your oral health.

Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride, often referred to as nature’s cavity fighter, is a powerful tool in the fight against tooth cavities. It helps strengthen your tooth enamel and combats harmful oral bacteria, lowering the risk of tooth decay. It also helps remineralize your teeth, reversing early tooth decay.

Patient Education: Knowledge is power, and patient education is a cornerstone of preventive dentistry. During your visit, we will take the time to discuss proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and the importance of eating a balanced diet. You will leave us more empowered to make informed decisions about your oral health.

Sealants: Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that we apply to the chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars. These vulnerable areas have pits and crevices that trap bacteria and food debris, making them prone to cavities. Sealants act as a barrier, shielding the teeth from harmful bacteria and acids. They are highly effective in preventing tooth decay and cavities.

Tooth-Colored Fillings: When cavities do occur, early intervention is essential. Tooth-colored fillings are an excellent preventive dentistry solution. By treating cavities early, we prevent them from progressing and requiring more invasive treatments like root canals and crowns down the road. Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth, providing a discreet and aesthetic restorative solution.

Preventive Dental Care at Home

Preventive dental care is not just about going to the dentist. It also involves taking care of your teeth and gums at home. Make sure you brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss once a day, and rinse daily with an antimicrobial mouthwash. Brushing and flossing help remove plaque and food debris, lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

If you have any questions about caring for your smile, please contact our team at Buckingham Family Dental. We are always happy to offer home oral hygiene tips to help keep your smile healthy and bright.