It is very common for patients of all ages to fall behind in preventive dental treatments. Our Santa Monica dentists understand this, which is why we’re here to encourage all of our patients to make a preventive treatment plan with their dental team. Once you have a comprehensive plan, it’s much easier to stay on track when life gets busy or unpredictable.
So what is involved in preventive dentistry?
Well, the goal of preventive dentistry is to keep harmful oral bacteria from infecting your teeth and gums. Because bacteria are constantly multiplying and growing in your mouth, consistency is key.
You want to make sure that you’re visiting your dentist for regularly scheduled professional cleanings. For most people, this means scheduling a cleaning every six months, but your dentist will let you know if you have different needs.
At-home dental care is also crucial: make sure that you’re brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day in order to keep your smile as fresh as possible. Remember, you want to use gentle pressure for at least two minutes every time that you brush. You can also incorporate a mouth rinse into your routine if you need a boost.
There are also professional treatments that can help you protect your smile for the long term. Dental sealants, for example, cover vulnerable dental material with a protective coating. While fluoride treatments work to strengthen the dental enamel so that it stays stable and resilient.
Patients of all ages need to invest in high-quality preventive care in order to avoid more costly and painful dental problems down the road. Even if it has been years since you have been in to see your dentist, our team encourages you to reach out for an assessment and preventive care.
As always, you can contact our Santa Monica dentists for additional information. Give us a call, or use the Contact Us page on our website when you’re ready to get started!