Learn More About Preventive Dentistry Treatments From Our Elmhurst Dentists

Written by Dr. Scharfenberg on Sep 6, 2017

Many people fall behind of preventive dentistry treatments, because they do not really understand why these treatments are so important. If nothing is wrong with your smile, why would you need treatment?

Well, the truth is that preventive dentistry treatments can help you avoid developing cavities and gum disease down the road. It’s so important to stay on top of preventive dentistry treatments, rather than waiting until dental problems arise. Keep reading to learn more from our Elmhurst dentists.

The foundational preventive treatment is the semi-annul professional cleaning. The general recommendation from the American Dental Association is that dental patients undergo professional cleanings every six months. During these cleanings, our dental team is able to clear away accumulated plaque and tartar—the very substances that wear down your dental enamel and gum tissue. Using professional tools, we’re able to rid your mouth of plaque that you cannot reach at home. By scheduling cleanings every six months, you are able to stay on top of plaque accumulation and prevent it from getting out of control.

The dental sealant is another dental treatment that helps to protect your smile. A sealant is essentially a thin protective layer that is placed over your dental enamel. Sealants are frequently used on back teeth and on especially grooved dental surfaces, as these areas are prone to collecting oral bacteria. Sealants are often applied as part of pediatric preventive dental care, but they can also be useful for older patients.

Finally, dental patients with compromised enamel may benefit from topical fluoride treatments. Fluoride helps to re-mineralize dental enamel so that your teeth become more resilient. Many at-home dental products—like toothpaste and mouth rinses—contain fluoride; professionally-administered topical fluoride treatments are more concentrated and potent than over the counter options.  

Our Elmhurst dentists are happy to give you all of the information you need about preventive dental care. Give us a call to schedule a personal consultation, or submit a question using the Contact Us page on our site!