How Preventive Dentistry Can Help

The two primary causes of tooth loss are decay and gum infection. The earlier you prevent these infections the more chances you have of preventing your dental health. Preventive dental care is the sure-fire way of keeping your dental structure intact.

Preventive dentistry consists of a few dental procedures like dental checkups and cleaning that are guaranteed to promote better oral health.

Having preventive dental care practices offers great benefits such as:

1. Prevents Tooth Loss

Dental cavities are the chief cause of teeth loss. Fortunately, the prevention of dental caries is easy today with procedures like a dental cleaning. Poor dental hygiene and consumption of sugar contribute to the deterioration of dental health. Yes, brushing and flossing go a long way in removing the accumulated plaques. However, at times because of using worn-out toothbrushes and ineffective brushing techniques, some food particles may remain. This provides a perfect environment for bacteria to develop.

The consumption of sugar also affects the teeth. Cavities are caused by acid-producing bacteria that feed on sugar. When you eat sugar-rich foods, the bacteria break them down, produces an acid that attacks the enamel. Constant exposure to this acidic solution affects the enamel causing it to weaken.

With regular professional teeth cleaning and proper diet, you can remove the buildup and keep the teeth healthy.

Another preventive measure that the dentist can recommend is dental sealants which shield the teeth from bacterial attacks. Sealants are plastic coatings used on children. However, adults with healthy teeth and gums, free of dental fillings can also use them.

Early detection of dental cavities is crucial to preserving your oral health.

2. Keeps the Teeth Strong

Every day two processes occur that can affect the enamel; demineralization, and re-mineralization. Demineralization is the loss of minerals from the teeth. The enamel contains calcium and phosphorous that help to maintain its strength. Daily consumption of sugary foods will strip the enamel of these essential minerals.

Furthermore, an acidic environment is ideal for cavity formation. Fortunately, the enamel can reverse the demineralization process with the minerals found in saliva and toothpaste. Using fluoride daily will boost the reabsorption of these minerals and strengthen the enamel.

3. Prevents Gum Disease

Tartar causes gum disease. When plaques accumulate for an extended time, they harden forming tartar or calculus. The tartar provides an ideal environment for bacteria to fester. If not removed, the calculus will lead to gum inflammation and the formation of gum pockets. This exposes the root and causes the bone to deteriorate.

Moreover, the inflammation can spread to the surrounding tissues, or worse still, enter the bloodstream causing widespread inflammation.

Gum disease is a serious dental problem. Not only does it affect oral health, but left untreated, the inflammation can spread to the rest of the body.

Professional deep teeth cleaning is the perfect preventive measure for gum disease.

4. It is easy to Identify and Prevent Other Health Problems

Did you know there is a direct link between dental and overall health? Certain dental problems like gum disease are linked to the heart. The gum inflammation can spread to the bloodstream affecting the blood supply and also the health of the arteries. Not getting regular teeth and gum cleaning can increase the risk of heart disease.

High blood sugar is also linked to gum disease. Elevated blood glucose impairs the supply of blood to the gums and also causes dry mouth, which increases the risk of gum disease.

Only with regular dental checkups, can you detect any gum infection and address it before it advances.

Above all, preventive dental care saves you money by preventing teeth extraction and other expensive dental procedures.

Final Thoughts!

Regular dental checkups, professional cleaning, fluoride treatments among other preventive dental care are the best measures to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Visit Dental Co. Leesburg, VA for the best preventive dental care. Our dentist will do a comprehensive dental exam and cleaning and recommend suitable dental treatment. We will also share information on how to keep your teeth and gums healthy at home.