Preventive Care
What Is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is an ongoing, cooperative effort between patients and the dental team. With your help, we’ll work to preserve your natural teeth and their supporting structures by preventing the onset, arresting the progress, and avoiding the recurrence of dental disease. The endeavor starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet, and it continues in our dental office. A proactive approach today helps avoid serious and costly problems tomorrow and allows you to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for life.
What Types of Procedures Are Included?
- Exams, Cleanings, and X-Rays
- Oral Hygiene Instruction and Diet Counseling
- Fluoride Treatment
- Dental Sealants
- Oral Cancer Screening
- Sports Injury Prevention
How Often Should I See My Dentist For Preventive Care?
Most patients see their dentist twice yearly for an exam, while others are encouraged to visit more often. At Wasserman Dental, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, and we can answer this question best after a comprehensive exam. While the recommendations we make for your home routine will be unique to you, a good place to start is with twice daily brushing, regular flossing, and healthy eating.
Dental Cleaning & Maintenance
Routine maintenance is essential for optimal health. At Wasserman Dental, patients throughout Los Angeles are encouraged to visit as often as necessary to maintain healthy teeth and a confident smile.
Are Regular Exams Really That Important?
Absolutely. With magnification, proper lighting, and the aid of X-rays, we work to identify problems like cavities and gum disease early, before they are visible to your naked eye. Additionally, dental exams involve more than the teeth and gums. The oral cavity can be an indicator of overall health,and maintaining your oral health is critical to maintaining your general health.
How Often Are X-Rays Taken?
This question is best answered after a comprehensive exam. Depending on the condition of your mouth and your risk for dental disease, we may suggest X-rays every 6 months, or maybe every 2 years. Remember that early disease detection minimizes damage to your teeth and gums. At Wasserman Dental we use digital X-rays, not only because they reduce waste and improve communication between dental offices, but also because they reduce radiation exposure.
What Can I Do To Maintain My Oral Health At Home?
- Brush to remove food debris and plaque, the sticky film composed of acid-producing bacteria that forms on teeth. Use fluoride toothpaste twice daily and a soft-bristled brush, and always remember to brush your tongue.
- Floss to reach between your teeth and below the gums, areas your toothbrush bristles can’t access. Tooth decay and periodontal disease begin wherever plaque is not removed, so make sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth. A variety of cleaning aids are available if you find flossing difficult. Speak with your dentist to find one that’s right for you.
- Eat a balanced diet, and try to avoid sugary foods.
