We believe it is far better to prevent dental disease, than to treat its effects. To help prevent tooth decay, we recommend effective brushing and flossing, the use of fluorides, restricted use of sugar products, and regular check-ups.
Our practice always employs dental hygienists for the treatment and prevention of gum (periodontal) disease - which is the main cause of adult tooth loss - and to give advice on all aspects of oral health. Our hygienist will demonstrate effective tooth brushing and flossing techniques to remove plaque without causing tooth wear or receding gums.
Through a collaboration between dentist and hygienist, we perform a thorough diagnosis of any gum disease that may be occurring. In addition, thorough treatment which includes removal of plaque and calculus (tartar) deposits will be performed.
Secondary factors that cause periodontal disease, such as smoking and diabetes, will also be discussed as well as how periodontal disease could affect other health problems like heart disease.
Preventive Dentistry For Children
For children in our practice, preventive dentistry involves polishing the teeth to remove stain and plaque, and the application of fluoride to prevent cavities.
Depending on your child, the structure and health of their teeth, we may also recommend the use of 'fissure sealants' on the biting surfaces of teeth that are at a bigger risk of decay. This would usually mean the back, adult molars as they start to erupt at about the age of six. Other teeth may be recommended to be sealed as well, depending on their shape and ease of cleaning.
Preventive Dentistry For Adults
We highly recommend the frequent and thorough removal of tartar from the gum-line, on a regular basis. Adults should follow a careful home program of effectively removing plaque from their gums by careful brushing and flossing on a daily basis.
Plaque not removed gradually builds up and hardens to become tartar, which can only be removed by using clinical instruments ("scaling") - a procedure usually performed by our qualified dental hygienists.
Tartar not removed leads to gum disease resulting in bone loss around the tooth. While many adults should have this procedure done every six months or so, many more adults require more frequent treatments, whether it is every four months, or even three months.