Preventive Dentistry
Through preventive dentistry, we assist you in keeping your teeth and gums healthy so that you have every possibility of keeping your natural teeth for a lifetime. There are numerous measures taken at home and at your routine dental visits that help keep tooth decay and gum disease at bay and promote good oral health.
At-Home Care
A strong home care regimen that includes brushing after each meal, flossing daily and eating a healthy diet can reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth that leads to tooth decay.
Using an electric toothbrush also is helpful, particularly one in which the bristles on the head spin independently. The high-powered cleaning attained by these types of toothbrushes are similar to the professional cleanings you get when you visit your dental hygienist. Studies have shown that using electric toothbrushes removes food from between teeth and reduces plaque buildup and gingivitis. They also promote fresher breath because they reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth.
Dental Exams
It is important to undergo routine dental exams to ensure your teeth remain healthy and there are no underlying problems. A dental exam typically involves having X-rays taken of the teeth. In our office, we use digital X-ray, which exposes patients to less radiation than traditional X-ray technology and doesn’t involve the use of harmful chemicals in the development process.
Digital X-ray also exposes patients to less radiation, and the images are immediately available for viewing on the TV screens in our exam rooms.
During your dental visit, Dr. Yang also will perform a visual exam of your teeth. He may use a dental probe to inspect the teeth for decay.
A dental exam also evaluates your gums and soft tissue for signs of disease.
Professional Cleanings
There are a lot of factors used to determine the frequency of professional dental cleanings. Children may need their teeth cleaned annually, while adults with periodontal disease could require quarterly or even monthly cleanings.
A professional teeth cleaning involves having a dental hygienist remove plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth, particularly in places that may be difficult for you to reach on your own. Once the tartar and plaque are removed, the hygienist will polish the teeth and finish up the process by flossing.
Anesthetics
For people who fear the dentist, oral sedation can help make the experience less anxiety-inducing. If you are fearful, ask us about the oral sedative options we have available that you can take prior to your appointment to induce relaxation.
Our office also offers nitrous oxide for dental procedures. This odorless gas numbs pain and gives the patient a pleasurable feeling.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are commonly used on children to prevent cavities. The sealant is a thin layer of plastic material painted onto the biting surfaces of the teeth that acts as a barrier and can last five to 10 years.
