August 21, 2024
Having a nice smile that you’re proud of is crucial for reaching your full social potential and can actually make other people view you as more trustworthy, but according to a national survey by OnePoll, most Americans (~60%) are actually unhappy with their smile. This unhappiness results in people engaging less in social activities (both in-person and online), not smiling in photographs, and even avoiding the dating scene. But what if there was something simple you could do to make sure your smile looks great? There is! All you need is regular, preventive dentist visits to keep your smile looking its best.
What is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is the combination of procedures and activities that are done to keep teeth, gums, and the entire mouth healthy and functional. Preventive dentistry is done both in a professional dental office and at home, including routine dental exams, diagnostics, and cleanings, plus home brushing and flossing. Preventive dentistry is the first line of defense against dental problems and should be the cornerstone of every person’s dental health plan, beginning in early childhood and continuing throughout life.Issues That Preventive Dentistry Can Address
Preventive dentistry can stop many dental issues in their tracks, including:Cavities
Dental cavities, also known as dental caries, are simply areas of decayed tooth tissues. Nearly 90% of American adults ages 20-64 have some degree of tooth decay, according to the National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research. Preventive dental care lowers the risk of developing tooth decay and cavities.Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, involves inflammation and infection of the gums and bones surrounding the teeth. According to the Centers for Disease Control, around 40% of adults over 30 years old have some level of gum disease, and the prevalence of gum disease increases with age. Preventive dental care allows your dentist to identify gum disease in the earliest stages, giving plenty of time to develop an effective treatment plan.Staining & Discoloration
One of the bigger complaints we hear about our patient’s smiles is that the teeth are not white enough. People want that dazzling white Hollywood smile, and healthy, adequately cleaned teeth are the first step in achieving this goal. While professional teeth whitening may also be recommended if discoloration reaches a certain point, simply brushing twice daily and having the teeth professionally cleaned twice each year can keep the teeth looking great without extra cosmetic procedures.Misalignments
Misalignments are another big complaint about smiles. Misalignments can range from minor gaps all the way to extreme over or underbites, and preventive dentistry can identify all of them early so that proper intervention can take place.Structural Abnormalities
Some people are born with or develop structural abnormalities that slowly emerge as the primary or permanent teeth grow in. With proper preventive care by a qualified dentist, these issues can be identified early in the child or teen’s development and treated appropriately.Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dentistry?
How often should I visit the dentist?
Everyone should visit the dentist at least twice each year for a comprehensive examination, diagnostic workup, and thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums.Why is preventive dental care important?
Preventive dental care is important because it helps patients keep their teeth healthy and functional with minimal to no problems. When a patient engages in preventive dentistry activities, such as routine dentist visits, their dentist can identify and treat any dental issues as early as possible, increasing the chances of a positive outcome. Patients who practice proper preventive dentistry enjoy healthier, more attractive smiles for longer than those who do not care for their teeth well.Preventive Dental Care in Northern New Jersey
Preventive dentistry is the foundation of all effective dental health plans and should be taught to children as early as possible to give them a great smile for life. If you need a high-quality dentist for you or your family, look no further than Dentex Smile Studio. Our experienced and talented team, led by Dr. Ewa Awad, DDS, is looking forward to helping your entire family achieve optimal dental health in a welcoming and professional office environment. To schedule an appointment, contact us at or
request an appointment online.