Preventive Dental Care
Preserving your natural dentition and supporting structures requires a collaborative effort between you, your dentist, and the dental staff.
This preventive program focuses on averting, halting, and preventing the recurrence of dental diseases and conditions.
For questions about proper techniques, contact our office at 323-582-2000, “your dentist in Huntington Park”.
323-582-2000
Expert Staff
Regular Dental Exams
Routine dental exams are crucial for early detection and prevention. During these check-ups,
your dentist and hygienist will perform the following:
- Diagnostic X-rays: Essential for detecting decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.
- Oral Cancer Screening: Comprehensive examination of the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums.
- Gum Disease Evaluation: Assessment of gums and bone for signs of periodontal disease.
- Tooth Decay Examination: Comprehensive check of all tooth surfaces for decay.
- Evaluation of Existing Restorations: Examination of current fillings, crowns, etc.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Administered by Registered Dental Hygienists, professional dental cleanings include:
Dental X-Rays
Essential for preventive diagnosis, dental X-rays can reveal:
Simple Tooth Extractions
For extreme sensitivity or advanced periodontal disease, a simple extraction may be necessary.
Reasons for extraction include periodontal disease, extra teeth, preparation for orthodontic treatment, fractured or malformed teeth, and severe decay.
The extraction process involves careful planning, local anesthesia, elevation of the tooth, and, if needed, breaking the tooth into smaller pieces for removal.
Home Care for a Lasting Smile
Your personal home care is pivotal in achieving a beautiful, healthy smile. Follow these practices:
- Tooth Brushing: Brush at least twice a day using an ADA-approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste. Electric toothbrushes are recommended.
- Flossing: Daily flossing cleans between teeth and disrupts plaque, preventing damage to gums, teeth, and bone.
- Rinsing: Rinse your mouth with water after brushing. Consult with your dentist on the appropriateness of over-the-counter rinses.
- Additional Dental Aids: Use interdental brushes, rubber tip stimulators, tongue cleaners, and other aids as recommended by your dentist or dental hygienist.
Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Enhance oral hygiene through proper brushing and flossing
to prevent tooth decay, periodontal disease, bad breath, and staining.
Brushing Technique:
- Place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
- Use small circular motions on the gumline and teeth.
- Brush all tooth surfaces, emphasizing back teeth.
- Brush the tongue to remove bacteria.
Flossing Technique:
- Use 12-16 inches of dental floss.
- Gently insert between teeth using a sawing motion.
- Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth.
- Move the floss up and down, cleaning the sides of each tooth.
Oral Hygiene Aids
While regular check-ups are essential, daily oral home care is indispensable for preventing dental problems.
Sealants for Added Protection
Sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to molars, premolars, and deep grooves to protect against decay.
They act as a barrier, creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface. Sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers during cavity-prone years and for adults with teeth prone to decay.
Sealants are easily applied by your dentist, offering protection for many years. Regular dental visits ensure their longevity.
Your dentist in Huntington Park
For questions about proper techniques, appointments, or any dental concerns, contact our office at 323-582-2000,