What is preventative dentistry?
Preventative dentistry is the act of maintaining the health of your gums and teeth through education, early diagnosis and proper oral hygiene. The goal of preventative dentistry is to prevent the development of advanced oral health problems. Thorough preventative dentistry requires effort from both the patient and their dentist. New Bern, NC dentist Dr. Stephen Hoard invites patients to be active in their preventative dental care for their long term oral health.
Brushing and flossing are your first defense against developing complex oral health concerns. Make sure you brush and floss twice a day, everyday. Proper brushing and flossing can deter tooth decay, halitosis, tooth loss and gum disease. If you have questions about proper brushing or flossing techniques ask Dr. Hoard or one of our dental care team members at your next dental visit. Brushing and flossing incorrectly can irritate the gums and cause bleeding or swelling.
The next best thing you can do for your oral health, schedule a professional dental cleaning at our New Bern dentist office. Dr. Hoard will help you determine how frequently you need to visit for cleanings and checkups. If you have already begun to develop gum disease, you may need to visit more often to keep the gums healthy. Most patients are encouraged to visit every six months.
Many patients have some fear of the dentist or anxiety about dental treatments. We want you to feel prepared and confident that visiting our dentist office is for your benefit. Our dental care team is highly trained and compassionate offering quality care through the use of the latest in dental technology. Professional dental cleanings are one of the best ways to keep your teeth healthy. Below is a brief rundown of what to expect from your dental cleaning.
What To Expect : Dental Cleaning
- Our experienced and gentle dental hygienist will carefully remove the tartar off of your teeth. The hygienist will use a small metal tool to remove the tartar. You may experience some pressure, but most patients report little to no discomfort.
- Next, the hygienist will floss your teeth thoroughly to remove any remaining particles from between your teeth.
- Then the hygienist will apply a polishing compound to shine your teeth, leaving them bright and clean.
- Finally a fluoride coating may be applied. Fluoride can help to deter the development of future cavities.
Schedule An Appointment New Bern, NC
To learn more about how preventive dentistry can help you maintain your best oral health, contact our New Bern dentist office. You may also schedule an appointment with our convenient online form.