Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry deals with caring for and maintaining your oral health in an optimal state to avoid dental issues like decay, cavities, enamel erosion, and gum diseases. To help preserve optimal oral health, the American Dental Association (ADA) advises you to visit your dentist in periodic intervals, yearly. 

What are the procedures offered under preventive dentistry?

Professional Dental Cleaning

A good oral care regimen followed at home helps in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. However, a professional dental cleaning is recommended at least twice a year. Timely professional dental cleanings help to diagnose and prevent the onset of periodontal diseases.

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer screening is performed to identify unusual growths like lesions and tumors inside and outside the oral cavity. The goal is to identify signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in their early stages when they can be treated and cured.

Educational Services

Your dentist, along with a hygienist, will demonstrate the right way to brush and floss. They will also create an at-home plaque control plan specifically for you. Tobacco-cessation counseling is also provided to limit or eliminate the consumption of tobacco-based products. 

Dental Sealants

The chewing surfaces of teeth have fissures and grooves that are hard to reach with a toothbrush.. These vulnerable areas accumulate plaque and trapped food particles that can lead to tooth decay and cavities. As a preventive measure, a thin coating of a dental sealant is placed over the chewing surfaces of teeth to protect the fissures and grooves from decay.

Fluoride Treatment

Your mouth contains acid-releasing bacteria and sugars from different foods and drinks consumed. These together  can contribute to the demineralization of the enamel and make it susceptible to cavities. Fluoride promotes remineralization of the enamel and strengthens it to protect it from decay. 

Radiographic Examination

Radiograph examination is used to identify dental problems that are not easily identified during a clinical oral exam. It helps in determining the following issues:

• Tooth decay present in between teeth
• Bone loss
• Infection present in the pulp
• Malocclusion or misalignment of the bite
• Impacted teeth
• Evaluate the state of developing teeth
• Tumors and abnormal growths in the mouth, neck or head that may indicate the presence of oral cancer

Historic Hyde Park Dentistry has been transforming smiles for Decades. Dr. Lori, along with her team, uses state-of-the-art technology to dental problems and reconstruct malaligned teeth to provide aesthetic and healthy smiles. For inquiries & appointments, please reach out to us at 813-253-3041. You can also visit our office at 612 West De Leon Street, in Tampa, FL 33606.