12
Dec
Why Preventive Dental Care Matters: Tips for a Bright, Healthy Smile
Practicing good oral hygiene at home is the first step to having healthy teeth and gums. But brushing and flossing alone isn’t enough to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. With preventative dental care at Aztec Family Dental Care, Dr. James Durfey and his team can proactively help you maintain optimal oral health and save money on costly treatments and procedures down the road. Most importantly, preventative care can detect and prevent common dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay before they become more serious.Â
What Is Preventive Dental Care?
Preventative dental care is a proactive approach you and your oral care team take to maintain your best oral health. This type of care can prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay before they even start. It includes regular dental checkups, routine professional teeth cleanings, and exams. However, an important component of preventative dental care also includes how well you care for your teeth at home.Â
Why Is Preventive Dental Care Important?
With preventative dental care, you can keep small problems like cavities from becoming major health concerns. Preventative care can identify plaque buildup, early signs of decay, gum inflammation, and wear on your dental enamel. Catching these problems early on helps avoid painful dental emergencies and costly procedures. It’s also important to know that dental problems like tooth infections and gum disease can also affect your physical health.Â
How Does Oral Health Impact Overall Health?
If you have dental problems, it can affect your overall health by causing:Â
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Diabetes complications
- Increased respiratory infection risk
- An effect on mental health
How Often Should I Visit the Dentist for a Regular Dental Checkup?
Dr. Durfey recommends that you visit his office for a routine dental checkup every six months. If you have issues like gum disease or concerns about oral cancer, you will probably need to visit his office more often. Also, if you have any symptoms of a dental problem, be sure to schedule an appointment so you can be examined.Â
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (505) 390-1117 | Existing Patients: (505) 334-2000
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What Happens During a Preventive Dental Checkup?
During preventive and routine dental checkups, a dental hygienist will professionally clean your teeth to remove any plaque and tartar buildup. Keep in mind that brushing doesn’t always remove plaque from hard-to-reach spots. Also, only a dental care team can remove tartar. Brushing doesn’t take care of that. Your teeth will be polished to reduce stains on the surface, and a fluoride treatment may be applied to your teeth.Â
After your teeth are cleaned, Dr. Durfey will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, mouth, and soft tissues to check for signs of decay, gum disease, and other issues. In most cases, X-rays will be taken to identify any problems lurking below the surface.Â
Where Can I Get Preventive Dental Care in Aztec, NM?
Whether for a new patient exam or a regular dental checkup, Dr. James Durfey and the team at Aztec Family Dental Care offer preventative dental care and can play an integral role in your oral health. Call our office today at (505) 390-1117 or request an appointment using our online form.Â
