At Queen Anne Hilltop Dental, we’re firm believers that the best kind of dentistry is the kind that keeps your smile healthy from the start. Not only does this ensure your lasting oral health, but it also guarantees that your smiles remain bright and beautiful! With our proactive and prevention-focused approach, our Seattle, WA team aims to stop dental problems in their tracks so that you can enjoy your healthiest smile every day.
What Is Preventative Dentistry?
Before we get into the details of what preventative dentistry services entail, let’s take a moment to talk about what preventative dentistry actually is.
Simply put, preventative dentistry refers to the primary care of your teeth and gums. It’s the foundation of good oral health and includes a variety of services, including routine check-ups and exams. It also involves educating patients on the best ways to take care of their teeth and gums at home through proper brushing, flossing, and diet.
At Queen Anne Hilltop Dental, we believe that preventative dentistry is the cornerstone of a healthy smile. By keeping up with routine services, we can catch any potential issues before they become bigger problems; this not only helps keep your teeth healthy and strong, but it can also save you time and money in the long run.
Exams
One of the most important services we offer at Queen Anne Hilltop Dental is routine checkups and examinations. These appointments are crucial for maintaining good oral health and catching any potential issues before they become bigger problems.
- During these appointments, our skilled team at Queen Anne Hilltop Dental will thoroughly assess your oral health. We will check for signs of decay, disease, or other issues, such as oral cancer. We’ll also examine your bite, the condition of your teeth and gums, and the fit of any dentures or appliances you may have.
- Regular exams help us identify and address any potential issues early on when they are generally more manageable and less expensive to treat. We recommend that patients come in for a dental exam at least once every six months or more frequently if recommended by one of our dental professionals.
X-Rays
Dental x-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool used in preventative dentistry. They allow our dental professionals to view what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums, providing valuable information that’s not visible to the naked eye. X-rays can reveal early-stage tooth decay, gum disease, impacted teeth, and even some types of tumors.
At Queen Anne Hilltop Dental, we use modern x-ray equipment, which emits very minimal radiation, and follow all safety guidelines to ensure the well-being of our patients. Depending on your oral health, personal risk factors, and age, we may recommend x-rays annually or more frequently.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It’s caused by a buildup of plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth.
When plaque is not removed through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove and can only be removed by a dental professional. Tartar buildup can lead to inflammation, recession, and infection of the gums—ultimately leading to tooth and bone deterioration.
At Queen Anne Hilltop Dental, we offer gum disease treatments that remove stubborn plaque and tartar to restore your gum health. Our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs and ensure that your gums remain healthy and strong.
At Queen Anne Hilltop Dental, we firmly believe that prevention is better than cure. Our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive preventative dental care that focuses not only on dealing with present issues but also preventing future ones. We’ll work closely with you, teaching you the best at-home care practices, scheduling regular exams and cleanings, and making sure you’re fully informed about your oral health. Our ultimate goal is to help you maintain a healthy mouth and a confident, sparkling smile.
To find out more about our preventative dentistry services or to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Your journey toward a healthier, more radiant smile begins here.