Preventative Dentistry in Hyattsville Is the Key to a Healthy Smile

preventative dentistry Hyattsville Dr. Paul W. Ashley DR. Michael Ashley. Ashley Dental Center. General, Cosmetic, Restorative, Preventative, Family Dentistry dentist in Adelphi, MD 20783

01 Oct Preventative Dentistry in Hyattsville Is the Key to a Healthy Smile

Posted at 08:00h in Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Cleanings, Dentist in Adelphi, Dentist in Hyattsville, Family Dentist, General Dentistry by Gargle Webreporting 0 Comments

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Prevention is always better than cure. Maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental issues before they arise can significantly improve your oral health and overall well-being. Thus, we highly recommend our patients practice preventative dentistry in Hyattsville, a set of proactive measures that help keep their teeth and gums healthy for a long time.

This blog post will discuss preventative dentistry and its various aspects in detail. From routine oral exams and cleanings to fluoride treatments and sealants at our office, Ashley Dental Center, we will cover everything you need to know to maintain a beautiful smile and optimal oral health.

Oral Exams and Cleanings

Regular dental exams and cleanings are the cornerstone of preventative dentistry. During an oral exam, Dr. Paul W. Ashley or Dr. Michael Ashley and their dental team will examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral structures to detect any signs of dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. The earlier these issues are detected, the better your chances of treating them effectively. Cleanings involve removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums using specialized tools. It helps prevent cavities and gum disease and keeps your breath fresh.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and prevents tooth decay. Our dental team can apply fluoride treatments to your teeth to enhance their resistance to cavities. Fluoride treatments are quick, painless, and cost-effective, and we can do them during your regular dental check-ups.

Before the treatment begins, your dentist and his team will clean your teeth to ensure the fluoride can penetrate your enamel. Then, we apply the gel or varnish to your teeth with a brush or cotton swab. The treatment usually only takes a few minutes to complete. We recommend not eating or drinking anything for at least 30 minutes afterward to allow the fluoride to absorb into your teeth fully.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that we can apply to the biting surfaces of your back teeth. They act as a barrier against bacteria and food particles, making maintaining good oral hygiene while preventing cavities easier. Sealants are an excellent preventative measure, especially for children at a higher risk of developing cavities.

The process is quick, painless, and non-invasive. Your dentist and his team will use a cleaning gel on your teeth first to ensure they’re ready for the sealant. Then, we’ll dry your teeth and apply the gel to help the sealant stick. Lastly, the sealant is applied and hardened with a special light. It’s that simple! Once the treatment is complete, the sealant will protect your teeth from decay for up to 10 years.

Dental sealants and fluoride treatments are especially recommended for children and teenagers who may have more difficulty brushing and flossing properly. However, adults can also benefit from these treatments, especially if they’re prone to cavities.

Oral Hygiene Education

Educating our patients about proper oral hygiene is just as crucial as providing dental treatments. Our dental team can help patients understand the best way to brush and floss correctly, which remedies to use for bad breath, and what diet and lifestyle habits to adopt to maintain oral health.