Preventative Dentistry in Murrieta, CA Dr. Todd Curley
As the name suggests, preventative dentistry is the area of dentistry that is focused on preventing dental problems and issues from occurring. And the primary way of effecting this prevention is to keep your teeth healthy, strong, and cavity-free.
What Are the Procedures Under Preventative Dentistry
Dental Exams
Dental exams are the primary preventative procedure that we perform. During these, we will thoroughly examine your teeth and other oral structures to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy and to spot any dental or oral problems. And if we spot any such problems, we will be able to deal with it early, preventing the need for more complex procedures.
Dental Cleaning, Scaling, and Root Planing
We usually do dental cleanings in conjunction with your regular dental checkups. These professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar, preventing the bacteria in them from corroding the teeth enamel that would have resulted in tooth decay and cavities. In connection with this, scaling and root planing are deep cleaning procedures that are focused on the tooth roots and prevent gingivitis and worse periodontal diseases.
Oral Cancer Screening
Another procedure that we perform in tandem with regular dental exams is oral cancer screening. We do this because oral cancer is easier to treat and possibly cure in its early stages. During this screening, we will thoroughly examine your gums and other soft tissues for any lumps or growths that might indicate the presence of cancerous cells. This would be followed by a biopsy if any such growths are found.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that not only helps protect teeth from decaying but also helps remineralize them. We perform this procedure, particularly on children who are more prone to tooth decay because of the sweets they indulge in.
Dental Sealant Application
A dental sealant is a thin covering that we apply on a tooth’s top grooves and fissures to keep food debris and plaque from accumulating in them. This would significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and cavities in those treated teeth.
Oral Hygiene Instruction
We can teach you the basics of oral hygiene, such as the proper way to brush, floss, and take care of your teeth and mouth. This could also include teaching you what foods to eat and avoid.
What Are the Benefits of Preventative Dental Procedures?
You enable your dentist to detect and treat problems early, preventing more complicated procedures in the future and saving you money and time.
Contact Dr. Todd Curley, DDS, at (951) 698-6220 for inquiries or to book an appointment. Visit us at 39755 Murrieta Hot Springs Rd., Ste. D110, Murrieta, CA 92563 for the best dental care and treatments.
