Preventive Dentistry Can Help You Maintain Your Oral Health Long-term

Preventive Dentistry Services

Dr. Kelly offers several preventive dentistry services to help you maintain your oral health and prevent more serious concerns. 

Dental Cleanings

Patients should receive a professional dental cleaning at least once every six months. Brushing and flossing alone are typically not sufficient in removing bacteria and plaque from hard-to-reach places. A buildup of plaque can turn into tartar, which can cause gum disease, cavities, and, eventually, tooth loss if left untreated. Regular cleanings can remove any buildup to prevent the development of these conditions and protect your smile. A professional dental cleaning can also remove surface stains from your teeth, making them appear brighter.

Dental Exams 

Typically after you have had your teeth cleaned, Dr. Kelly will perform a thorough dental exam. Your exam may include x-rays to view your tooth roots, jawbone, and any restorations you have. Dr. Kelly will carefully examine your teeth and gums, checking for any early signs of decay or gum disease. He will also examine your jaw, head, and neck for any signs of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

Oral Cancer Screening

The earlier that oral cancer is caught, the better chance you have of beating the disease. During routine exams, Dr. Kelly will carefully examine the soft tissues in your mouth. He will look for sores, lumps, or other growths on the gums, inside the cheeks, or in other areas. If he notices any spots of concern, he may take a biopsy and send it to a lab for testing. 

Instructions for At-home Prevention 

Your at-home oral care routine is just as important as getting regular checkups. While many patients understand that they need to brush twice each day and floss at least once per day, they still may not always complete these tasks. Additionally, patients may not brush or floss correctly, which can cause damage and lead to gum disease. We provide you with the information you need to properly brush and floss to protect your teeth and not cause any lasting damage.

As a family dentist, Dr. Kelly can provide you and your family with higher levels of preventive care, to help you maintain your oral health long-term.

Importance of Biannual Checkups

Biannual checkups allow us to catch most conditions in the earliest stages. Gum disease, if caught in the early gingivitis stages, is very treatable and manageable. If left untreated, gum disease can require extensive and costly treatments. Regular checkups can also help us detect cavities and other concerns early on, allowing us to treat or reverse them quickly to prevent any serious damage to your teeth.

Additionally, your oral health is closely linked to your physical health. Both gum disease and tooth decay have been linked to heart attack and stroke, and gum disease has also been linked to diabetes and dementia. By preventing these conditions, or receiving early treatment, we can protect your lasting physical health as well as your oral health.

Benefits of Preventive Services by a Family Dentist

Dr. Kelly’s focus is to get to know you and your family on a personal level. He will familiarize himself with your past and present oral health and family dental and medical histories. This dedication will allow him to watch for potential concerns, especially if a certain condition, such as gum disease, runs in your family. As a family dentist, Dr. Kelly can provide you and your family with higher levels of preventive care, to help you maintain your oral health long-term.

Protect Your Oral Health

If it has been more than six months since your last dental checkup, contact our office today to schedule your next appointment. We can help you maintain a strong, healthy oral foundation for years to come.