Preventative Treatments From a Family Dentist

Preventative Treatments From a Family Dentist from Valley River Dental in Murphy, NCA family dentist is an excellent choice for many people. This professional is trained to diagnose and treat common dental conditions in patients of all ages so that an entire family can visit the same dentist. That makes it easy for busy households to schedule routine care and preventative treatments. Patients should always work with a dental professional to determine the appropriate treatment options for their unique needs.

Tools a family dentist uses to maintain healthy teeth and gums

While each person must work directly to establish a suitable care routine, some preventative measures are more common than others. Patients are most likely to encounter the following treatments during an exam at a general dentist's office.

Cleanings

Cleanings are recommended approximately every six months for most people. During this procedure, a technician carefully removes any tartar buildup on and between teeth and polishes them to a shine. Routine cleanings allow technicians to address hard-to-reach areas that individuals may miss during daily brushing and flossing. It is also a good opportunity for patients to ask questions about proper dental care.

Digital X-rays

Modern technology means that a family dentist can get a clear view of the patient's teeth within minutes. Whether through a standard set of bitewings or a panoramic 3-D model of the mouth, digital X-rays allow dentists to see any hidden problems and address them quickly. That limits the amount of damage that might otherwise spread to nearby teeth and gums. X-rays are also an excellent tool to monitor jaw alignment and improve early detection of any abnormalities.

Sealants

Dental sealants are a quick and comfortable preventative dentistry treatment. During an appointment, a thin layer of sealer is placed over the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Sealants are most commonly used in the larger, back teeth such as molars and premolars, and they work particularly well in children and teens who may be a little lax in general cleaning procedures. Sealants limit cavity formation and decay by preventing food and bacteria from attaching to dental surfaces.

Fluoride treatments

Fluoride applications are proven to help prevent tooth decay and are an essential tool in preventative dentistry. Fluoride can be applied directly to teeth in a thin layer with a brush or by temporarily fitting a tray filled with fluoride gel over the teeth. Either way, the process is relatively quick and straightforward. Fluoride treatments help remineralize teeth and reduce the likelihood of cavities, cracks, chips, and decay. Some patients also find that they help with tooth sensitivity that is triggered by extreme temperatures.

Patient education

In many cases, education can be an excellent tool for preventing dental problems, especially when it comes to young patients who are unsure about how to care for their teeth and gums properly. The right dentist will encourage questions and provide thorough, appropriate answers to them.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Family Dentist Preventative Treatments in Murphy, NC

Conclusion

A family dentist should be viewed as an essential partner in your family's dental care. Utilizing modern tools and practices, these dental professionals employ various techniques designed to keep teeth healthy and strong.

Request an appointment or call Valley River Dental at 828-360-9114 for an appointment in our Murphy office.

Related Posts

What Is A Family Dentist Exam Like

Regular trips to the family dentist are essential for staying healthy. Ensuring that the mouth is in tip-top shape can aid the body in defending against harmful bacteria. Even with a good at-home oral health regimen, keeping up with regular exams as recommended is crucial to catching new developments sooner.The body's immune system repels foreign…

Why You Should See A Family Dentist

For those tired of making numerous trips to different offices for dental care for the whole family, it may be time to make the switch to a family dentist. Unlike general dentistry where services are focused on a particular age group, family dentistry provides oral care for people of different age ranges in a family.For…

General Vs. Family Dentist: What's The Difference

There are many reasons to consider choosing either a family dentist or a general dentist. A move to a new location, changing dental needs, or even the retirement of a current dentist can lead a patient to weigh the available options in dental care. Knowing the difference in the services and restrictions of each type…