Find Out Why Early Detection Is Crucial for Your Oral Health

Have you heard the saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure? It’s a wise sentiment in most contexts, but especially when it comes to your oral health. Keeping on top of your routine preventive care can help you benefit from early detection of oral health problems – which will save you time, effort, and money in the long run. 

Keep reading to learn more about the importance of prevention, and steps you can take to keep your teeth and gums healthy. 

All About Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry is an area of practice that aims to stop problems like cavities, gum disease, and other issues from occurring in the first place – and to catch them early when they do crop up. 

Preventive dentistry includes things you do at home, like brushing and flossing routinely, as well as services that your dentist offers during your twice-annual visits. X-rays, cleanings, and check-ups are all part of a solid preventive plan. 

Benefits of Early Detection

There are three solid advantages to prevention or early detection when it comes to your oral health. They are the following:

1. Spend less on dental care: It is far more cost-effective for you to visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning than it is to only book an appointment when you already know you have a problem. Restorative dentistry procedures like crowns or dental implants can cost thousands of dollars. Your preventive visits may be free with insurance.
2. Save time: A checkup and cleaning may run you about an hour, all told – but if you need to replace a missing tooth, getting a dental implant can take months from start to finish. Stay away from procedures like that and you can keep your sick/vacation days for when you actually want to use them. 
3. Avoid discomfort: With sedation and other innovative methods, your dentist can perform many procedures while you stay completely comfortable. However, the best way to save yourself from any discomfort whatsoever is by not needing to go under the drill at all. You can keep large cavities away by visiting routinely for preventive care.

How to Protect Your Smile

If you are ready to renew your commitment to your oral health by taking part in routine preventive care, commit to the following steps: 

• Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss between teeth once a day
• Visit your dentist twice a year, or as often as they recommend it
• Avoid sugary foods and sweetened beverages, like soda pop
• Always wear a mouthguard when you engage in contact sports

Keep these tips in mind, and you can feel good knowing you are protecting your teeth and gums for years to come.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Bita Kamali earned her doctorate at Baylor College of Dentistry in 2000 and has been caring for smiles as a qualified dentist ever since. She is passionate about helping patients achieve and maintain excellent oral health, and she knows that routine examinations aid in early detection of dental problems. To learn more about the services she offers or to book an appointment for periodontal therapy or anything else, contact Parkway Vista Dental at (972) 818-1300.