Maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems
Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems before they occur. The goal is to help patients keep their teeth and gums healthy throughout their lives, which helps to avoid the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures.
Preventive dentistry includes a range of practices and procedures, such as regular dental checkups and cleanings, fluoride treatment, dental sealants and preventive resins, oral cancer screenings, and the use of oral appliances such as nightguards and athletic mouthguards.
It also involves promoting good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding habits that can damage teeth such as smoking.
By practicing preventive dentistry, individuals can reduce their risk of developing dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. It can also help to identify any dental issues early on, when they are easier and less expensive to treat.