WHAT'S PREVENTATIVE DENTISTRY?
Preventative dentistry is used to optimize the health of your natural teeth before problems arise. Good oral hygiene habits are a must if you want your smile to last a life-time. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we recommend visiting Dr. Brian Leeson at least twice a year for routine checkups and exams. That way, we can prevent and address any dental problems you may be having.
oral exams and cleanings
Professional teeth cleanings and exams are a key component to preventative dentistry. We recommend visiting your St. Petersburg dentist every six months. You can expect dental x-rays, a dental cleaning, and a comprehensive dental exam during your routine checkup at 4th Street Family Dentistry. Dental x-rays allow us to detect any underlying issues that you may have. During your professional dental cleaning, your hygienist will scale your gums, clean your teeth using professional equipment, and floss. Lastly, Dr. Brian Leeson will evaluate your oral health, examining your teeth, gums, tongue, and throat. For optimal oral health, we recommend seeing 4th Street Family Dentistry for a professional dental cleaning twice a year.
dental sealants
Dental sealants are designed to act as a barrier between cavities, acid, and sugar. This liquid-based resin is placed on and around the grooves of your tooth after a dental cleaning. It quickly hardens on your tooth and can last up to 10 years. Dental sealants help protect your smile, so if you’re interested, ask Dr. Brian Leeson if dental sealants are an option for you.
Gum disease treatment
Majority of people will go through one of the three stages of gum disease at least once in their lifetime. Luckily, gum disease can be treated. Gum disease starts at the gingivitis stage will progress to periodontal disease. Usually you’ll start to noice redness and inflammation in your gums which is due to build up bacteria. During your gum disease treatment, Dr. Leeson will remove any built up plaque and tartar. If you think you may have gum disease, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry to schedule gum disease treatment.
Deep cleanings
Dental cleanings are more extensive than standard dental cleanings. When there is an excessive amount of plaque, gum disease can form and affect your whole health. During your deep cleaning at 4th Street Family Dentistry, Dr. Leeson will remove any built up plaque or tartar below the gum line. This treatment may require several visits, depending on the severity of the plaque. So, if you are suffering from severe plaque build up you will likely need a professional deep cleaning to stop the gum disease from progressing.
Benefits of Preventive Dentistry
At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we truly care about our patients. We want nothing but the best for them, which is why we strongly encourage preventive dentistry. There are many benefits to preventative dentistry:
- Saves You Both Time and Money – It only takes about 10 minutes to brush and floss your teeth each day. Brushing and flossing your teeth combined with attending your annual cleanings could save you thousands of dollars in extensive dental treatment! It’s definitely worth it.
- Reduces Other Health Issues – The state of your oral health often reflects your overall health. Many health problems such as heart attack, stroke, and cancer are linked to periodontal disease and tooth decay. Being proactive with your preventive dentistry will help reduce the risk of developing other health problems.
- Brighter & More Confident Smile – You can’t have a beautiful smile if you don’t take good care of it! If you neglect your teeth, you’ll eventually feel self-conscious about your smile. Practicing good oral health is key component to having a beautiful and healthy smile.
FA.Q.s about Preventative Dentistry
The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every six months to help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. That’s right! Visiting 4th Street Family Dentistry on a regular basis will keep your teeth in tip-top shape!
The American Dental Association recommends that children visit the dentist every six months after they turn one year old or after their first tooth erupts. If you’re still unsure about whether or not your child needs to visit your St. Petersburg dentist, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today!
It’s recommended that everyone brushes their teeth with proper technique at least twice a day. Flossing is also a key part to proper oral hygiene. It’s recommended that you floss at least once a day to remove any built up food particles. If you’re able to, we recommend brushing after each meal. Practicing good oral hygiene habits is essential to good oral health.
Most insurance plans cover dental cleanings, exams, and one set of x-rays at least once a year. If you’re not sure on your dental coverage, check with your insurance provider.
We understand that not everyone has dental insurance, but still needs dental care. That’s why we’ve put together our Dental Savings Plan. Choose the perfect plan for you and your family without breaking the bank!
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