Preventive dentistry is a dental care routine that helps to keep teeth healthy. The main purpose of preventive dentistry is to prevent problems like tooth decay and cavities, gum disease, enamel damage, and so on, from occurring. Following the principle that prevention is better that cure, preventive dentistry serves to halt the progress of anything that might cause oral disease.
Oral health is important for overall health because problems with the teeth and gums can be extremely painful and disruptive to daily life. Furthermore, if left untreated, oral infections can spread to other parts of the body and cause more complications. Treatment for oral problems can sometimes take a long time and be spread over several sittings. Preventive dentistry can go a long way in both stopping oral disease from developing and the need for multiple dentist visits later on.
Preventive dentistry can range from something as simple as brushing and flossing your teeth to regular cleanups by your dental hygienist. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends regular dentist visits for a check and cleaning. Preventive dentistry is especially important for children because they can sometimes miss places when brushing their teeth which could lead to the formation of plaques and cavities. At San Anselmo Family Dentistry, we take care of all your family’s needs and work with you for the long haul.