When it comes to the health of your teeth and gums, the importance of preventive care cannot be emphasized enough. Preventive care involves being proactive and taking steps to promote better oral health. Dr. Margaret Fitzsimons and Dr. Bronwyn Hagan, the skilled dentists at Fitzsimons & Hagan Dentistry in Maspeth, NY, offer preventive dentistry services to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Dental Checkups
An effective way to prevent various oral health issues, such as gum disease and tooth decay, is to practice preventive care. A primary component of preventive dental care is scheduling checkups regularly. Dental checkups include an oral exam and teeth cleaning, both of which contribute to a healthier mouth. The dentist might also recommend specific preventive services, such as sealants or fluoride treatments. In general, it is recommended that most patients visit the dentist once every six months.
One of the reasons it is important to see a dentist at our office in Maspeth, NY, regularly is that it gives the dentist an opportunity to detect any changes in oral health since your last visit. Potential problems can be identified early before they progress and become more complicated and costly to treat. Diagnosing and treating problems right away helps prevent more serious oral health issues from developing.
Professional teeth cleanings also help prevent the development of many oral health problems, including tooth decay and gum disease. Tartar buildup, which is hardened plaque, bonds with tooth enamel and cannot be cleared away by brushing and flossing at home. The only way to successfully and safely remove tartar buildup is with a professional dental cleaning. Tartar causes infections and cavity-causing bacteria so removing it is important for the health of your teeth and gums.
Developing Healthy Habits
There are many things you can do to practice preventive care at home, as well. Developing healthy habits can go a long way in helping you maintain optimal oral health. One key way to practice preventive care is by developing an effective oral hygiene routine, that includes brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice each day and flossing daily. Other healthy habits that promote better oral health include avoiding sugary foods and drinks, as well as not smoking or using tobacco products.
The role preventive care can play in helping you maintain healthy teeth and gums should not be underestimated. Preventive dental care focuses on the prevention of oral health problems. To schedule your next checkup with Dr. Fitzsimons or Dr. Hagan, our caring and experienced dentists, call Fitzsimons & Hagan Dentistry in Maspeth, NY, at (718) 429-6931.