Preventive Dentistry Services in Salina, KS
The best way to maintain a happy, healthy smile is to keep serious dental issues from developing. Preventive dentistry focuses on stopping problems before they start, and catching small issues before they turn into big ones.
At New Horizons, we believe in a proactive approach to dental care, not a reactive one. We encourage all of our patients to participate in office based preventive dentistry and home based oral hygiene programs.
Preventive Dentistry Procedures Include:
A regular daily schedule of brushing and flossing is the first line of defense against dental problems. From there, regularly made and kept dental appointments can ensure any problems are caught early and dealt with before they become severe.
Dental Cleanings
Your twice annual prophylaxis (dental cleaning) appointment allows your teeth to be cleaned thoroughly and checked for any signs of decay. Your gums will also be carefully cleaned and checked for signs of disease. Your dentist will normally have a set of digital x-rays done once every 1-2 years, or if you are experiencing sensitivity or pain in a tooth.
Dental Sealants
If you haven’t had dental sealants, they can be applied to the chewing surfaces of your teeth after a cleaning to prevent bacteria from settling in deep grooves. This can also help prevent cavities from forming, although sealants are not a replacement for good oral hygiene.
Periodontal Therapy
When bacteria gets trapped below the gum line, it turns into plaque. The gum tissue becomes irritated and infected, leading to pockets forming between the gums and teeth which in turn compounds the issue. Periodontal therapy can stop (and in some cases reverse) the advancement of gum disease, reducing the chance of tooth loss. If your dentist notices signs of gum disease during a dental exam or cleaning, periodontal therapy may be recommended.
For more information about our practice or to request an office tour, contact our Salina, KS, dental office at 785-825-7197 or book a consult or an appointment online.