Preventive Dentistry

Preventive Dentistry in NYC

At DP5th, we believe that prevention is the best treatment. That’s why we make sure to give patients the tools they need to avoid future dental problems. Here’s how we conduct preventive dentistry in NYC.

Our hygienists can recommend advanced preventive dentistry techniques that go beyond brushing and flossing. This can include special pre-rinses, mouthwashes, and adult fluoride treatments. They are also trained to recognize the warning signs of oral cancer and other diseases, and to address sources of potential damage such as clenching, nail-biting, grinding, smoking and dietary habits, along with medical problems like esophageal reflux, diabetes, oral cancer, and eating disorders.

Risks

If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to a gum infection called periodontitis. Periodontitis usually causes bad breath and tooth loss, but the symptoms can get worse over time. Periodontitis has been linked to  life-threatening health conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Preventative care is the best way to avoid gingivitis, periodontitis, and other serious conditions since gum disease forms from plaque build-up.

Preventive Dentistry Process

At DP5th, we take preventative dentistry seriously. After all, diseases in your mouth can eventually affect the rest of your body. Preventative care is for everyone. No one is excused from the risks of plaque, tartar, gum disease, and other oral health concerns.

Some ways we practice preventative dentistry include:

• Cleanings: During your cleaning, a member of our dental team will carefully remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth. It’s nearly impossible to remove tartar at home with a toothbrush since it is hardened to your teeth. Because plaque and tartar lead to gum disease, this is a very important step in preventative care.
• Discussion: Your dentist will then discuss the different and proper ways to brush your teeth. While this may seem mundane, many people brush too hard or not long enough. Learning how to properly brush your teeth is paramount to your overall health.
• Recommendation: We will recommend which floss, mouthwash, toothbrush, and toothpaste we find is best for you. If you have sensitive teeth, we may suggest a special toothpaste and rinse to fix this issue.

Costs

If we let these problems dwell, they may cost us a lot — both physically and financially. Severe health problems require large expenses. Not only does preventative care save you from oral diseases, but it also saves you time and money.

Be Responsible

One of the most important parts about preventative dentistry is staying consistent and making a habit out of your oral care routine. While Dental Partners of Fifth Avenue offers a wide range of services, practicing good hygiene at home is the best way to keep your smile looking its best. The two main causes of tooth loss are gum disease and tooth decay. Luckily, these issues are often preventable if you stay consistent with your oral hygiene upkeep.

Remember to brush twice a day for at least two minutes and floss once a day. This will significantly lessen your chances of dental disease, tooth loss, and the need for serious dental attention.