Preventative Dentistry
Stop Dental Problems before They Start
Preventive dentistry helps you maintain excellent oral health and avoid problems like cavities and gum disease.
As a general dentist in Manchester, NH Dr. Chris Moriarty believes in partnering with his patients to include them in the decision-making process. By doing so, we can help you understand how easy it is to maintain a healthy smile with preventive dentistry.
We offer the high-quality dental care you need to address any dental condition you face. It’s much better for you, however, if you don’t ever have to deal with them in the first place.
For example, you may be hesitant about dental x-rays, but consider this: Dentists can’t treat what they can’t see. Finding a tiny cavity on an x-ray and addressing it right away is easy. Without the x-ray, neither of us will know the problem exists until you get a toothache.
Unfortunately, by that point, the tooth may be too damaged for a filling, and Dr. Moriarty might need to perform a root canal to save it.
What Does Preventive Dentistry Involve?
Preventive dentistry is all about doing whatever we can to keep your teeth healthy and educating you so you can do your part at home. It includes:
Brushing and Flossing at Home
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once to remove plaque buildup from your teeth to help prevent cavities and gum disease. Your dental hygienist would be happy to give you helpful tips, so don’t hesitate to ask if you have questions!
Dental Exams and Cleanings
The American Dental Association recommends two dental exams and cleanings a year as the best way to maintain a healthy smile.
During your dental examination, Dr. Moriarty will:
- Review any changes in your medical history
- Check each tooth and note any concerns
- Examine your gums for signs of infection
- Check the condition of existing dental work
- Take dental x-rays as needed
- Perform an oral cancer screening
Throughout your examination, Dr. Moriarty will include you in the process by explaining his findings, and, if treatment is necessary, he’ll help you understand why and how it will benefit you.
Your Professional Teeth Cleaning
Brushing and flossing at home remove the bacteria-filled plaque that builds up on your teeth throughout the day. You also need to follow up on your efforts with professional teeth cleanings every six months.
These hygiene appointments are critical because only a dental hygienist using specialized instruments can remove the hardened plaque—called tartar or calculus—that builds up on your teeth. If we don’t remove bacteria-filled tartar, you are at risk for developing gum disease.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health
Gum disease is a widespread, serious problem that affects half of all US adults over the age of thirty. Puffy, swollen, or bleeding gums are not healthy and are a good sign that you have an infection that we need to treat.
Far beyond being an oral health issue, numerous studies reveal that oral inflammations like gum disease can travel to other parts of your body. Scientists and researchers have linked chronic gum disease to complications associated with heart disease, diabetes, stroke, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, and many other conditions.
Preventive Dentistry Saves Smiles
Untreated gum disease is very damaging, but we have good news; it is highly preventable with proper oral care, and Dr. Moriarty and his team can help. Get on your way to your healthiest smile yet, and call us to schedule your next dental exam and cleaning at our Manchester, NH dental office.
