What is Preventive Dentistry?

Preventive dentistry is about being proactive. At our dental practice, we work to prevent dental problems from occurring in the first place. If you already have dental issues, our goal is to treat them so well that they go away. It has been shown that tooth decay and gum disease take about six months to ‘take root’ if you will. That’s why we recommend scheduling an appointment twice each year for cleaning and dental checkups.

Regular preventive dental care not only helps in maintaining optimal oral health but also contributes significantly to overall well-being. By catching potential problems early through routine teeth check-ups, we can prevent minor issues from becoming major concerns. This approach not only saves you time and money in the long run but also ensures that your dental health is consistently monitored and managed. Our team at NH Dentistry in Beverly Hills is dedicated to providing top-notch preventive dental services, tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient.

What Does Preventive Dentistry Address?

Preventive dentistry addresses a wide range of oral health issues, including:

Tooth Decay and Cavities: Regular teeth check-ups and cleanings prevent the build-up of plaque that leads to cavities.
Gum Disease: Early detection and treatment of gum disease prevent it from progressing to more severe stages.
Enamel Loss: Fluoride treatments and dental sealants help protect and strengthen tooth enamel.
Bad Breath: Routine cleanings and proper oral hygiene reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath.
Oral Cancer: Regular oral cancer screenings can detect early signs of oral cancer, improving treatment outcomes. Advanced screening systems such as ViziLite PRO® are used to detect oral abnormalities early on.
Periodontal Disease: Advanced technologies and techniques, such as laser bacterial reduction therapy and deep cleaning, are used to target and prevent periodontal disease, ensuring healthy gums and overall oral health.

Benefits of Preventive Dentistry for Tooth Decay

Early Detection: Identifies potential issues before they become serious, allowing for less invasive treatments through regular dental checkups.
Cost-Effective: Prevents costly and extensive treatments by maintaining oral health through regular care.
Overall Health Improvement: Reduces the risk of conditions linked to poor oral health, such as heart disease and diabetes.
Aesthetic Maintenance: Keeps your smile bright and attractive with regular cleanings and maintenance.
Pain Prevention: Avoids painful dental problems and procedures through early intervention.
Healthy Smile: Maintains a healthy smile through preventive dentistry practices, regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and professional dental exams.

Am I a Candidate for Preventive Dentistry?

Preventive dentistry is ideal for everyone, regardless of age. It is especially beneficial for:

Children: Establishing good oral hygiene habits early prevents future dental issues.
Adults: Maintaining oral health and preventing complications from developing.
Seniors: Managing age-related dental issues and maintaining overall health.

Regular dental cleanings are crucial for maintaining oral health across all age groups, as they help remove plaque and tartar, reduce the risk of various dental issues, and support overall body health.

What’s the Connection between Dental Health & Heart Health?

Research increasingly shows that by preventing and/or treating periodontal disease, you are likely helping to prevent cardiac disease.

The link between dental health and heart health is primarily due to the inflammation and bacteria caused by gum disease, which can enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart. This can lead to the formation of arterial plaque and potentially cause atherosclerosis, a condition that narrows the arteries and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Periodontal disease has been associated with higher levels of systemic inflammation, which is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. By maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking regular preventive dental care, you reduce the bacterial load and inflammation in your mouth, thereby potentially lowering your risk for heart-related issues. Regular dental check-ups and treatments like dental cleanings and the use of dental sealants can significantly contribute to better overall health, reinforcing the importance of oral care in maintaining cardiovascular health.

Dental Health
To Do List

Get your teeth cleaned every six months. Not only will we polish up your pearly whites, we’ll give you a refresher course on proper brushing and flossing. Remember to get a complete dental exam once a year. Brush twice a day and floss at least once every day. Bacteria-laden plaque needs to be brushed off on a regular basis before it has the chance to break down tooth enamel or inflame the gums. By not letting plaque get an upper hand, you are helping to ensure that your smile stays healthy. Click the link to learn more about at home dental care.

Preventive Dentistry Results

With consistent preventive care, patients can expect:

Healthier Gums and Teeth: Regular dental exams and teeth cleanings keep your mouth healthy.
Fewer Cavities and Dental Problems: Preventive measures, including dental exams, reduce the incidence of decay and other issues.
A Brighter, More Confident Smile: Routine care, such as teeth cleanings, maintains the appearance of your teeth.
Long-Term Savings on Dental Treatments: Preventing problems early through regular dental exams and teeth cleanings reduces the need for expensive treatments.

Preventive Dentistry Recovery

There is typically no recovery period for preventive dentistry services. Procedures such as cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants are non-invasive and do not require downtime. Patients can resume their normal activities immediately after these preventive treatments. Additionally, there is no recovery period for dental cleanings and exams.

Why Choose NH Dentistry
for Preventive Dentistry?

At NH Dentistry in Beverly Hills, we offer comprehensive preventive dental care with a focus on patient comfort and education. Our experienced team uses the latest technology and techniques to ensure the best outcomes for your oral health. We believe in a proactive approach to dental care, helping our patients maintain healthy smiles for a lifetime.

Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral health, as they allow for early detection and treatment of potential issues.

What is the Cost of Preventive Dentistry?

The cost of preventive dentistry varies based on the specific services you need. Most insurance plans cover preventive dental services, including teeth check-ups and cleanings. For those without insurance, our office provides various payment options to make dental care accessible. Investing in preventive dentistry can save you money in the long run by avoiding more extensive treatments. Regular dental cleanings and dental exams are cost-effective measures that help in the early detection and prevention of dental issues, contributing to better oral health and overall cost savings.

Preventive Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions

Are sealants considered preventive?

Yes, dental sealants are a preventive measure used to protect the chewing surfaces of teeth from cavities and decay. Sealants act as a barrier, preventing food particles and bacteria from getting trapped in the grooves of your teeth.

Are preventive fillings necessary?

Preventive fillings, or prophylactic fillings, can help prevent the development of cavities in areas prone to decay, making them a valuable preventive measure. They are especially useful for patients with deep grooves in their teeth where cavities are more likely to form.

Can I wait six months to fill a cavity?

It is not advisable to wait six months to fill a cavity. Early treatment prevents the cavity from worsening, which can lead to more extensive and costly procedures. Promptly addressing cavities helps maintain overall oral health and prevents discomfort.

How many fillings are normal at 30?

The number of fillings a person has by age 30 varies based on their oral hygiene habits and dental history. Regular teeth check-ups and good oral hygiene can minimize the need for fillings. On average, maintaining a routine of preventive dental care reduces the likelihood of needing multiple fillings.

How often should I have a dental check-up?

It is recommended that dental check-ups and cleanings be done at least twice a year. Regular visits help to catch potential issues early and maintain optimal oral health. However, some individuals with specific conditions may need more frequent visits, as advised by their dentist.

What are the best practices for Preventive Dental Care at home?

Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is crucial for preventive dental care. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, eating a balanced diet low in sugary snacks, and avoiding tobacco products. Regular use of mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.

Amenities

Bacteria and Oral DNA Testing

These are tests that give us the types and levels of bacteria in your mouth and let us know if you are predisposed or have genetic markers to important things like periodontal disease, bone loss, and deep pockets. By having this information it gives us insight about your dental issues and enables us to provide the appropriate course of treatment and medication to treat and improve them. This is important because periodontal issues are systemic and ultimately connected with the whole body.

An Experience As Unforgettable As Your Smile

Schedule a consultation with premier Beverly Hills Dentist Neil N. Hadaegh, DDS. Your best smile calls for genuine care, personalized treatment, state-of-the-art technology, and expert precision. Contact us to design, achieve, and maintain your best smile in Beverly Hills with the help of renowned dentist Dr. Neil N. Hadaegh.

8920 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 625, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

(310) 659-5399

Preventive Dentistry