Prevention Is Key in Dentistry
Of course, the best prevention for your dental health starts at home. No one should ever underestimate the importance of regular brushing and flossing, but there are also a few office treatments and strategies that can help you stave off dental decay in the long run.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are made of plastics and were created to interfere with the formation of plaque on your teeth. It’s no wonder, then, that they can help prevent tooth decay. Sealants are a great choice for children and adults who have no cavities as of yet. They can last for up to a decade; however, they should be checked regularly for damage. Using sealants means that you may be able to save on expensive repair work in the future if you prevent tooth decay in the first place.
Dental Guards
Tooth grinding typically happens in your sleep. It’s often related to anxiety and stress, but it can also be related to diet or poorly aligned teeth. Eliminating caffeine, adding exercise to your daily regimen or seeking counseling to deal with stress can be helpful.
Your dentist can fit you with a mouthguard that will help protect your teeth from grinding as you sleep. When untreated, this bad habit can cause teeth to crack or wear away. In some cases, untreated grinding requires expensive dentures to replace damaged and decayed teeth.
Ultrasonic Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleanings can be a more beneficial choice than manual treatments for some patients. Patients with a lot of tartar and plaque buildup can benefit from ultrasonic cleanings the most.
Studies show that using ultrasonic instruments allows wounds caused by scraping to heal more quickly. At the same time, the area is still cleaned just as effectively as it is with a manual instrument. Though this can be more expensive in the short term, in the long run, it helps you save money.
If you’re in need of a new dentist, call Scott E. Hayhurst Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today. Dr. Hayhurst is an experienced professional when it comes to preventative care. Book your appointment by sending us a message or by giving us a call at 208-376-7721!