Would you like to avoid oral health problems altogether? Want to maintain optimal oral health? Preventive dentistry (dental cleanings, for example) is the answer! Prevention begins at home by brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, drinking plenty of water, and eating a tooth-friendly diet. However, your dentist is an essential part of maintaining a healthy smile.
Dr. Julie Glud’s passion is to help patients gain and maintain optimal oral health. She offers several preventive dentistry treatments like dental cleanings, oral cancer screening, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. Call to schedule your appointment today!
Dental Cleanings
Most dentists recommend that patients of all ages visit every six months for a dental cleaning and exam appointment. During this appointment, the dental team will:
- Evaluate your oral health
- Discuss your oral hygiene habits
- Check for issues with your bite and jaw
- Take dental x-rays
- Check for signs of gum disease, decay, and oral cancer
- Thoroughly clean your teeth
During the dental cleaning, the dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and along the gum line. He or she is able to reach parts of the mouth that you may not be able to reach. This is an important and essential part of the appointment and will help you avoid cavities and gum disease.
Oral Cancer Screening
When oral cancer is caught in the early stages, treatment has a higher rate of success and is less invasive. During an oral cancer screening, dentists check the mouth, throat, lips, gums, and tongue for abnormalities.
The dentist will also ask about any symptoms of oral cancer, such as:
- Pain while speaking, swallowing, or moving your jaw and/or tongue
- Feeling like something is stuck in the back of your throat
- Swelling or lumps in or around your mouth
- A sore throat
- Mouth sores
- Drastic weight loss
- Ear pain
- Bleeding in the mouth
- White or red patches in your mouth
Early treatment is imperative, so make sure you are vising your dentist at least once a year for an oral cancer screening.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a natural mineral that improves oral health by strengthening enamel and preventing cavities. A fluoride treatment may consist of a concentrated rinse, foam, gel, or varnish. The dentist will apply the fluoride to the teeth with a swab, brush, tray, or mouthwash. It is recommended that you avoid eating and drinking for 30 minutes after your fluoride treatment.
Fluoride treatments are often recommended for children and those who have signs of tooth decay.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin coating that is painted onto the tops of the molars to prevent cavities. According to the CDC, dental sealants prevent 80% of cavities in the back teeth. This treatment is quick, easy, painless, and extremely beneficial.
Dental Cleanings in Lombard, IL
Has it been longer than six months since your last dental cleaning and exam appointment? Don’t wait any longer to visit our Lombard, IL dentist! Call us today at (630) 629-5700 to schedule your appointment.
