Preventive Dentistry in Orem UT

Preventive dentistry involves certain dental procedures aimed at preventing the onset of oral infections and diseases. It is always better to take precautionary measures to prevent any health condition before it starts. This would keep you away from a lot of discomfort, pain, and wouldn’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Oral cleaning

Oral cleaning briefly includes two procedures; scaling and root planing. Both approaches are aimed at removing the accumulated plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth crowns and roots, respectively. Both these procedures significantly reduce the severity of gum diseases and prevent their occurrence. Also, they reduce bad breath and the formation of cavities.

Oral X-rays

Oral x-rays are essential in determining jawbone deterioration, cracks, fractures, underlying cavities, excessive wear of the teeth, the onset of malocclusion, drifting of teeth from their sockets, etc. They help to prevent severe conditions such as tooth loss, change in the alignment of teeth and jawbones, etc. They also allow the dentist to spot and treat underlying tumors and cysts.

Dental sealants

Sealants are made from either composite or acrylic and are used to cover the occlusal grooves present on the surface of the molars and premolars. The grooves can house thousands of microbes though they are quite narrow. They directly promote the formation of cavities, thereby compromising oral health. Sealants permanently seal off the grooves and prevent the entry of microbes and debris into them, which prevents the formation of cavities.

Oral cancer screening

Oral cancer is most often caused due to smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol, and chewing tobacco. Millions have been victims of oral cancer, which could’ve been prevented with early detection. Some of the signs that we look for are redness, inflammation, bleeding, tissue decay, discharge of pus from the gums, leukoplakia, sores, lesions, etc. In case such signs are encountered, further treatment will be suggested to overcome oral cancer.

Fluoride treatment

Fluoride is one of the essential minerals in our bodies. It is commonly found in the teeth and keeps them resistant to cavities, making them naturally strong. The body gets its ideal supply of fluoride from drinking water and the toothpaste we use, and failing to get the required amount will make the teeth more susceptible to microbes and cavities. We can help replenish this amount through a fluoride treatment, thereby increasing your teeth’ resistance to cavities.

Along with the above-stated treatment procedures, one must make sure to practice proper oral hygiene at home. This is the first level of preventive dentistry, and a lot of prominences should be given to them. Brush and floss using a fluoride-rich toothpaste twice every day for maximum protection against microbes.

Please do reach out to us on call or by scheduling an online consultation with our dental professionals, and we’ll be glad to assist you further.