Preventive Dentistry in Tempe, Arizona
At A Great Smile Arizona, we pride ourselves on treating every member of the family. Solid preventive care is the foundation for your oral and overall health. Good at-home hygiene habits, in combination with professional cleanings, can keep your smile free from decay and other oral health issues like gum disease. Regular exams allow your dentist in Tempe to monitor your oral health so you can address any minor concerns before they become larger, more costly, and more invasive issues.
Cleaning & Hygiene
Regular teeth cleanings and hygiene appointments are the foundation of preventive dental care. During your cleaning, we will thoroughly cleanse your teeth and gums, removing any plaque or debris from every surface in your mouth. You’ll even be able to reverse minor stains to keep your smile bright and beautiful. We recommend scheduling routine cleanings and exams every six months for most patients.
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However, good oral hygiene shouldn’t stop when you leave our office. Keeping up with your at-home brushing and flossing routine is equally as important as attending professional cleanings, and is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Use a fluoride-rich toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time; and don’t forget to floss! Flossing at least once every day, ideally before going to bed, helps to get rid of food particles, plaque, and bacteria that can’t be removed with brushing alone.
Digital X-rays
Digital x-rays are safe, quick, and comfortable. Using the latest technology, we can create crisp, high-resolution images of your mouth’s structure, so we can make accurate diagnoses and treatment plans. Digital x-rays use only a fraction of the radiation as traditional film x-rays, so you can rest easy. Most patients receive one or two full sets of x-rays every year, but we may recommend additional imaging in the case of a dental emergency, or if we find an oral health issue that we need to investigate further.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a great way for patients to protect their teeth from decay. Dental sealants are often recommended for children, but can still be a great option for patients of all ages. Plus, dental sealants can provide protection for your teeth for years after being applied.
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Applying dental sealants is a quick, non-invasive procedure that utilizes a dental resin that is applied to the molars. The uneven surface of molars, which are located in the rear of the mouth, are filled with grooves where plaque and bacteria can flourish. After application, the resin is cured with a UV light, causing it to harden into a powerful barrier between your teeth and the foods, drinks, acid, and bacteria that lead to decay.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatments are one of the best ways to keep dental decay at bay. A simple, non-invasive procedure, fluoride treatments help to keep your enamel strong. After your cleaning, we’ll apply a fluoride-rich varnish or gel; we may ask you to refrain from eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes or so following your visit. Fluoride helps kickstart a process called “remineralization,” which restores essential minerals like calcium and phosphates to your teeth, keeping your enamel hard and resistant to acids, like those that cause tooth decay.
Periodontal Care
Gum disease, while common, can have serious effects on your oral and overall health if left untreated. Advanced stages of periodontal (gum) disease can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss, so timely treatment is essential. Periodontal care uses a variety of treatments, like deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, to stop gum disease in its tracks and restore your oral health. If your gums are inflamed or bleed easily, if you have persistent bad breath, sensitive teeth, or notice any changes in your bite, get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation and get your smile back on a healthy path.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are a part of every preventive visit, and are a quick way to fortify your peace of mind. Through consistent exams, we can catch oral cancer early on, which gives us a better chance at treating it before it spreads. A routine oral cancer screening can even save your life!
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Your dentist will examine your gums, tongue, and the rest of the soft tissues in your mouth, keeping an eye out for lesions and other abnormalities like lumps and discolorations. If there is anything that concerns us, we may recommend getting a biopsy, which will be analyzed by a specialist to determine the cause of the abnormality. Regular oral cancer screenings allow us to identify any potential problems before they become major issues.
Night Guards
Unconscious teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism, is a common issue that tends to happen at night while patients are asleep. However, night guards can help patients alleviate symptoms of bruxism by creating a barrier between your teeth that protects them from grinding-related damage. Depending on the severity of the case, night guards can be made from several different materials with varying degrees of softness.
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To get fitted for a night guard, you will receive impressions or digital scans of your teeth and gums that we will use to custom-craft a mold that will then be sent to the lab. Your night guard will be created to match your exact specifications and measurements for a perfect fit. Night guards ease tension in your jaw, alleviating the painful headaches and preventing dental damage caused by clenching and grinding. Night guards can keep your smile healthy and help you get the restful sleep you need.
Emergencies
Dental emergencies can be painful, stressful experiences, but we're here to help. If you're experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing to do is take a deep breath and keep calm. Then, give us a call to find out if you need immediate care. Dental emergencies can be anything from a knocked-out tooth or dental work to a persistent toothache. If you're unsure if what you're experiencing qualifies as a dental emergency, it's better to be safe than sorry, so get in touch with us right away so you can get the care you need when you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Preventative Dentistry Improve Overall Health?​
Absolutely. Preventive dentistry not only preserves your oral health but also contributes positively to your overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to several systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. By maintaining good oral hygiene and receiving regular dental care, you can help reduce the risk of these conditions. At A Great Smile Arizona, we emphasize the integral connection between oral health and overall well-being and strive to provide comprehensive care that reflects this relationship.
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How Often Should I Visit A Great Smile Arizona For Preventative Checkups?
Following the American Dental Association’s guidelines, we recommend visiting A Great Smile Arizona at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. However, Dr. Nguyen may suggest more frequent visits based on your unique oral health requirements. For example, patients with periodontal disease often require more frequent preventive visits, as often as 3 or 4 times per year, depending on the individual’s condition. These regular visits are vital for maintaining optimal oral health and addressing any dental issues promptly. Each visit includes a comprehensive oral examination, professional cleaning, and tailored advice on enhancing your oral hygiene routine.
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What Preventative Services Does A Great Smile Arizona Offer?
A Great Smile Arizona offers a wide array of preventive dentistry services, underscoring our commitment to maintaining and enhancing our patients’ oral health. Our services include, but are not limited to:
Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular check-ups and exams are essential for monitoring oral health and identifying potential issues early.
Professional Teeth Cleanings: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing might miss. Plus, regular cleanings can often remove surface stains, resulting in a refreshed, sparkling smile.
Dental Sealants: Made from a special resin, dental sealants offer an added layer of protection against cavities, especially for molars and premolars.
Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that has been proven to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.
Patient Education: We take extra time to teach our patients about the importance of oral health and provide guidance on best practices for oral hygiene at home.
Dr. Mike Nguyen utilizes the latest in dental techniques and technologies, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and state-of-the-art preventive care.
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What Is Preventative Dentistry and Why Is It Important?
Preventive dentistry is a proactive approach to dental care, focusing on maintaining excellent oral health to avert dental issues like cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and others. This area of dental care encompasses regular dental examinations, cleanings, and educating patients on effective oral hygiene practices. Its significance is profound, as it acts as the primary defense against oral health problems. Through regular preventive care, potential dental issues can be detected early, often resulting in easier, less costly treatments. Additionally, it plays a pivotal role in preventing the development of dental problems, ensuring long-term oral health.