Preventative Dental Care in Laurel, MD

What is Preventative Dental Care?

Preventative dentistry is the cornerstone of maintaining optimal oral health. At Excite Dental, we emphasize the prevention of dental issues by blending routine care, patient education, and proactive treatments to avoid significant problems in the future.

Preventative Dentistry in Laurel, MD – Excite Dental

Benefits of Comprehensive Preventative Dentistry

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Cost-Effective

Preventing dental issues through regular care and early intervention is generally more affordable than treating severe problems later on.

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Time-Saving

Routine check-ups and early treatments save time compared to extensive procedures for severe dental issues.

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Healthier Smile

Preventative care helps maintain a bright, healthy smile, boosting confidence and overall well-being.

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Pain Prevention

Early detection of dental issues means less pain and discomfort. Cavities, gum disease, and other problems can be treated before they cause significant pain.

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Overall Health

Maintaining good oral health can reduce the risk of developing other health issues. For example, gum disease has been linked to heart disease and stroke, so managing oral health can contribute to a healthier life overall.

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Personal Responsibility

While we play a significant role, your daily habits are crucial. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using mouthwash as recommended can make a substantial difference. Additionally, regular self-examinations can help you catch early signs of problems.

Understanding Comprehensive Preventative Dentistry

Routine Care

Routine check-ups are crucial. These typically occur every six months and include professional cleanings, which remove plaque and tartar that can't be eliminated by regular brushing and flossing alone. During these visits, your dentist and hygienist can also spot early signs of issues like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer, often before you are even aware.

Patient Education

A significant aspect of preventative dentistry is educating our patients about proper oral hygiene practices. This includes teaching the correct brushing and flossing techniques, as well as providing advice on diet and lifestyle choices that affect oral health. Patients are often guided on how to select the right dental products, such as toothpaste or electric brushes. Nothing gets your Excite Dental hygienist more excited than talking about what products are best for you!

Sealants and Fluoride Treatments

For added protection, especially for children, your dental team might recommend sealants to protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. These sealants act as a barrier against bacteria and food particles, helping to prevent decay. Fluoride treatments are another preventative measure. Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. These treatments can be administered in-office or through recommended home-use products, and our team will discuss what may work best for your family.

Diet and Lifestyle Counseling

What you eat and drink significantly impacts your oral health. Comprehensive preventative dentistry includes counseling on dietary choices that promote healthy teeth and gums. For instance, limiting sugar intake can drastically reduce the risk of cavities while ensuring a diet rich in calcium and phosphorus supports strong teeth. Our compassionate team may also address habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, which can harm your oral health.

X-rays and Digital Imaging

Periodic X-rays help your Excite Dental team identify issues that are not visible to the naked eye, such as decay between teeth, bone loss, or impacted teeth. In addition to digital X-rays, we utilize digital intraoral cameras to show you and us clear diagnostic quality pictures within seconds. Digital imaging technology used at our office has made these processes safer, faster, and more accurate – all of which allow for earlier detection and treatment of potential problems.

Custom Mouthguards

If you play sports or grind your teeth at night (bruxism), custom mouthguards are an essential preventative tool. They protect against trauma during physical activity and reduce wear and damage from grinding, preserving tooth integrity and preventing future dental work. We offer custom mouthguards as an investment to protect your smile and existing dental work. Together, we will find the right fit for you!

Managing Systemic Health

Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and even pregnancy can impact oral health. Comprehensive preventative dentistry includes managing these connections. As your oral health partner, Excite Dental of Laurel, MD, patients receive the added benefit of knowing we understand and care about you as a whole person.