Prevent Problems Before They Start
We are always happy to address our patients’ oral health issues with treatments and techniques that restore their teeth to near perfection. Treating dental problems is a big part of what we do. But what makes us even happier is when we can help our patients prevent problems from happening in the first place.
Preventive care is an essential but often overlooked area of dentistry. Maybe it isn’t as “fun” as explaining the benefits of the latest laser treatment or showing the results of a complex restoration case, but preventive dentistry is more important than either of those topics. Why? Because preventative care focuses on helping patients keep their natural teeth as healthy as possible for as long as possible, and nothing, not even the most advanced restoration, beats a natural tooth.
What Is Preventive Dental Care?
In simple terms, anything a dentist or a patient does to prevent oral disease or damage is preventive care. That means brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups. It also means fluoride treatments and dental sealants, as well as mouthguards and nightguards. Every action we take to keep tooth decay, gum disease, or any other outside agent from damaging teeth is considered preventative care.
Why Preventive Care Matters So Much
- Keeping teeth and gums free from disease and damage significantly decreases a patient’s chances of tooth loss as they age. In turn, this benefits their oral and overall health. With good preventive care, anyone can keep their natural teeth for life. That means, they can continue to eat nutritious foods, which has a direct effect on a person’s long-term general health.
- Healthy teeth protect the jawbone from deterioration. This is important because the jawbone is what allows a person to open and close their mouth to speak, eat, laugh, smile, yawn, sing, and express themselves in endless ways. When a person is able to maintain these essential functions, they will live a richer, healthier, and happier life.
- Tooth replacement is a major intervention that often involves multiple treatments, including extractions and oral surgery. Yes, tooth replacement options are better than ever, but nothing can ever be as good as natural teeth. And let’s not ignore the cost of undergoing such extensive treatment. It is far easier on the patient and their wallet to take good care of their teeth at home and visit the dentist for regular cleanings than it is to restore and replace teeth.
If you’ve been putting off your dental checkup or it’s time to schedule appointments for the kids, please call our office located in Meridian, ID. We’re here to help you and your family stay healthy!
