Preventive Dentistry Brooklyn NY

father & daughter brushing teeth | teeth cleaning brooklyn nyPreventive dentistry is one of the best ways to protect your smile and overall health. Even if it’s been years since you’ve seen the dentist, it’s never too late to start your path toward a healthier smile. Building a relationship with a dentist in Brooklyn you trust is vital to protecting your health, and your dentist is an integral member of your healthcare team.

With preemptive care, we aim to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other conditions that can compromise tooth structure and oral tissues. During a routine dental checkup, we may take x-rays and check your teeth, gums, jaws, neck, and surrounding structures. We also provide thorough oral cancer screenings to check for precancerous or cancerous patches, lumps, and sores.  

Preventive Dentistry: What It Is and What to Expect

Preventive dentistry focuses on preventing oral diseases like tooth decay, gingivitis, and gum disease. At Leaf Dental, we recommend receiving routine dental exams and cleanings every six months to keep your teeth and gums problem-free and functional. 

Preventive care involves annual x-rays, thorough visual examinations, and professional dental cleanings. Digital dental x-rays provide a more detailed, internal view of your smile, while our visual exams allow us to observe your mouth’s surface features. Other preventive care services include fluoride treatments and dental sealants that help combat cavities. 

Routine dental checkups can save you time, money, and energy by helping you avoid more complex or costly dentistry in the future. With preventive care, our Brooklyn dental team can stop problems before they start or provide timely treatment in the early stages. 

Ultimately, preventive care is key to reducing the risk of oral health problems and minimizing the need for treatments like fillings, root canals, and dental crowns in Brooklyn. 

What’s My Role in Preventive Dental Care?

Much of preventive dental care starts with you. Developing healthy habits early in life helps curtail cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. 

Here are some basics of good oral health:

  • Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily. 
  • Floss between your teeth at least once daily to remove plaque and food debris. 
  • Rinse with mouthwash to wash away food particles after flossing. 
  • Avoid sugary and acidic foods that can damage enamel and cause cavities. 
  • Avoid smoking and using tobacco products that can lead to oral cancer and other dental problems. 
  • Wear a nightguard if you grind and clench your teeth and a protective mouthguard if you participate in sports. 
  • Be cautious when eating hard, chewy, or sticky foods that could chip or damage teeth.

Benefits of Preventive Dental Care 

Preventive dental care has many benefits and can: older woman eating apple | brooklyn dentist

  • Lower your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental health issues
  • Promote good oral hygiene habits, like consistent brushing and flossing
  • Identify early signs of problems like decay, gum disease, and oral cancers 
  • Minimize treatment and cost of dental care 
  • Reduce oral health issues related to chronic medical conditions like diabetes and osteoporosis

Schedule Your Teeth Cleaning in Brooklyn Today 

Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last dental visit, our team at Leaf Dental would love to see you. Please get in touch with us today to schedule your appointment with one of our dentists.