The Whole Tooth and Nothing But the Tooth

Family dentists provide general dentistry services for people of all ages, and their focus is on preventative dentistry. This form of dentistry is essential for your oral health, but have you ever wondered what services fall into preventative dentistry? If so, you are in the right place. The following five services fall into this category of dentistry.

1. Oral Exams

An oral exam is something a dentist performs any time you visit a clinic for a checkup. An oral exam involves the dentist looking inside your mouth with dental tools. The purpose is to check each  tooth to ensure it is healthy and to see if there are any visible problems.

2. X-Rays

X-rays are also a form of preventative dentistry. Dentists typically take x-rays of teeth every year to see if they show any problems. An x-ray of your teeth shows your dentist things that they cannot see by looking inside your mouth. X-rays show problems with the jawbone and the roots of teeth. They also help dentists locate hidden cavities or infections. X-rays are a vital part of preventative dentistry, and you should agree to them annually.

3. Teeth-Cleaning Services

Getting your teeth cleaned every six months is also a form of preventative dentistry. The purpose of teeth-cleaning services is to remove the substances from teeth that may lead to cavities. Plaque and tartar are the main two substances that dentists remove during cleanings. Failing to remove these substances regularly increases your risks of cavities and gum disease.

4. Cavity Removal

Cavity removal also falls in the category of preventative care primarily because small, unaddressed cavities lead to bigger, more substantial problems. If you decide to leave a small cavity on a tooth, it will grow. Dentists remove cavities to prevent further problems from occurring.

5. Gum Measurement Tests

The other service that falls into this category is gum measurement tests. Your dentist might measure your gums once a year and will track the measurements. The purpose of this test is to find out if you have any signs of gingivitis or gum disease. Dentists can monitor your measurements over time to see how quickly your gums recede, and this helps them find ways to prevent gum disease from forming.

Preventing problems is the goal of preventative dentistry, and you should regularly visit a dentist for these services. If you need to set up a visit, call a family dentist in your area for an appointment.