Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry is the modern approach to reducing the amount of dental treatment required to maintain a healthy mouth and help keep your teeth for life. We are proud to say that preventive dentistry has always been our philosophy at Redhouse.
Tooth loss primarily results from gum disease and decay. So it’s important to take action to prevent these problems arising. Not only is this the ideal way to manage the oral healthcare of children and young adults, we recommend this approach for everyone – including people with dentures who can benefit through the early identification of conditions such as mouth cancer and denture stomatitis (thrush).
It is recommended that adults have an oral cancer check-up every two years and more often if you have a history of tooth decay or gum disease. This is a simple process involving your dentist using a small mirror to take a close look at all areas your mouth, including under your tongue. Remember our dentists can see places in your mouth that you cannot. Early detection of a mouth cancer improves the chances of successful treatment.
Fluoride treatments
Fluoride is used to care for your teeth and mouth in three ways:
Toothpastes – most toothpastes contain fluoride and we recommend you chose these options when buying one. The concentration of fluoride for children depends on how old they are and other factors such as the risk of tooth decay. Your dentist or hygienist will be able to tell you which one to look for.
Mouthwashes – fluoride mouthwashes are recommended for our susceptible patients and are also good for general use (apart from very young children). Again your dentist or hygienist will be happy to advise you.
Fluoride gel – this is applied directly to the teeth. How often it is used depends on how susceptible you are to tooth decay and gum disease and your dentist or hygienist will advise you.
Through recommended treatment, and a maintenance plan, the combined efforts of the dentist, hygienist and patient can help prevent the need for treatment and so avoid the historical pattern of fillings and extractions.
Simple things you can do at home:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with a toothbrush and interdental aids as recommended by your dentist/hygienist.
- Change the brush ever two to three months. Worn-out toothbrushes won’t clean your teeth properly and may damage your gums.
- Clean between your teeth using dental floss or sticks. This is known as interdental cleaning.
At your initial appointment with the Redhouse dentist and hygienist they will advise you on how often you should attend for check ups and hygiene visits to suit your individual needs. Contact us now to make an appointment: info@dentistatredhouse.co.uk
