When it comes to maintaining your health, prevention is key. That’s why it’s important to regularly visit a dentist that offers preventive dentistry services. Dental cleanings and exams, digital x-rays, and oral cancer screenings are all services that keep you healthy and prevent oral diseases.
At Dental Care of Lombard, Dr. Julie Glud provides quality preventive dental care for the whole family. However, not only does her preemptive care keep you healthy, but it also saves you money in the long run.
Here, we’ll discuss different types of preventative dental care and the importance of regular dental visits. Additionally, we’ll explain why frequent trips to the dentist are a more budget-friendly approach to oral healthcare.
Exams, Cleanings, and Screenings–Oh, My!
Prophylactic–or preventive–dentistry is designed to detect dental issues early and deter disease. Dentists help their patients ward off oral problems by offering services, such as:
- Dental exams and x-rays: By thoroughly inspecting the mouth and teeth, dentists can locate areas of dysfunction or disease. Subsequently, they can develop a customized treatment plan to restore their patient’s oral health.
- Dental cleanings: Plaque is a sticky film that develops on the teeth. When plaque builds up, it leads to cavities and gingivitis. An extensive dental cleaning combats cavities and gum disease by removing plaque on the teeth and around the gum line.
- Oral cancer screenings: Approximately one American dies from oral cancer every hour. Yearly oral cancer screenings can detect the early signs of oral cancer, which is crucial to beating the disease.
- Fluoride and sealants: Tooth enamel wears down over time, which leads to cavities and staining. Fluoride treatments and tooth sealants help protect tooth enamel to prevent tooth discoloration and decay.
- Periodontics: Gum disease–or periodontitis–can be reversed by deep cleaning above and below the gum line. Periodontal treatments, known as scaling and root planing, help promote healthy gums by removing plaque buildup and decreasing inflammation.
How often should I go to the dentist?
Every patient is unique, and they’ll have their own set of unique needs. Therefore, the frequency of dental visits will vary from person to person based on their oral health goals and requirements. However, dental professionals recommend visiting a dentist at least twice yearly for thorough exams and cleanings.
Nevertheless, patients who are considered at higher risk of developing oral diseases and conditions should be visiting a dentist quarterly. People who have an increased risk of developing dental diseases and issues include:
- Diabetics
- Pregnant women
- Tobacco users
- Patients with gum disease
- People who are genetically predisposed to cavities and plaque buildup
Saving Money in the Dentist’s Chair
Regular dental exams and cleanings prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. However, neglecting your oral health could lead to further health complications and expensive restorative treatments. Here are just a few ways that poor oral health can burn a hole in your wallet:
- Cavities: Untreated cavities will destroy the natural structure of the tooth. When this happens, a dental crown is needed to restore the tooth’s shape and function. A dental cleaning can cost between $75-$200 (depending on your insurance). But a dental crown has the potential to cost upwards of $500.
- Gum disease: Without proper treatment, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, heart disease, and bacterial infections. Therefore, maintaining your health with regular dental visits prevents you from collecting hefty dental and medical bills.
- Tooth loss: If left untreated, tooth loss can lead to jaw bone deterioration, facial sagging, and shifting of the existing teeth. So, dentists recommend replacing missing teeth in order to reestablish good oral health. However, replacing missing teeth with dental crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures can cost patients thousands of dollars.
Prophylactic Dental Care in Lombard, IL
If you’re ready to take charge of your oral health, then it’s time to schedule a dental exam and cleaning. Don’t have insurance? No problem! Dental Care of Lombard offers affordable memberships through their DCL Smile Club. Call (630) 629-5700 or visit us online to get started today!
