Preventative Dental Care

Preventative dentistry is a branch of dental care aimed at maintaining good oral health by preventing dental problems before they start. It involves regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and practices that help avoid cavities, gum diseases, enamel wear, and more. By focusing on routine maintenance and proactive care, preventative dentistry helps individuals minimize the risk of developing significant dental issues down the line.

This approach to dental care not only emphasizes the importance of daily brushing and flossing but also includes professional dental cleanings and exams. Dentists and dental hygienists play a crucial role in identifying and mitigating potential problems early on, such as spotting signs of tooth decay or gum disease before they become more serious. Preventative dentistry is about keeping your teeth and gums healthy through a combination of personal oral hygiene practices and professional dental care, ensuring a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Preventative dental care includes services that help maintain good oral health by preventing disease before it takes hold in your mouth. Regular exams and cleanings, X-rays, sealants, and fluoride treatments are all part of preventative care.  These services are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, preventing tooth decay, and avoiding more serious dental issues in the future.

At Mirror Lake Dental, we believe that prevention is key to a healthy smile. Our team of experienced dentists and hygienists provide comprehensive preventative care to help you maintain optimal oral health.

During your regular check-up appointments, our dentists will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay or other potential problems. X-rays may also be taken to get a more in-depth look at your oral health. Catching any issues early on can prevent them from becoming more serious and costly down the road.

CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) is used for various diagnostic purposes, including implant planning, visualization of abnormal teeth, evaluation of the jaws and face, cleft palate assessment, and more. This technology allows for a three-dimensional view of the teeth, bone, nerves, and soft tissues, providing detailed information for more accurate treatment planning.

CBCT is a revolutionary imaging technique that uses cone-shaped X-ray beams to capture multiple images from different angles. These images are then reconstructed into a 3D model of the patient’s oral structures, providing a more comprehensive view than traditional x-rays.

Sport and night guards serve as a protective measure for individuals who either engage in contact sports or suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding) while sleeping.

For athletes, a sport guard is crucial as it absorbs shocks and minimizes the risk of oral injuries such as broken teeth, lacerations to the cheek and lips, and even more severe jaw damage. These guards are custom-fitted to ensure maximum protection and comfort during physical activity.

On the other hand, night guards are designed for those who grind their teeth or clench their jaws at night—a condition known as bruxism. This unconscious habit can lead to a variety of issues including tooth damage, headaches, jaw pain, and disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). A night guard acts as a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing wear on the tooth surfaces and alleviating pressure on the jaw.

Determining whether you need one depends on your specific circumstances. For athletes involved in contact sports, a sport guard is highly recommended to protect against dental injuries. If you experience symptoms of bruxism such as morning headaches, sore jaw muscles, or your partner notices that you grind your teeth at night, it may be worthwhile to consider a night guard.

If you feel like a Sport or Night Guard could help you, please feel free to contact us for a free consultation.

It’s recommended to visit your dentist for preventative care twice a year. However, depending on your personal dental health, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits. This is especially important for those with a history of gum disease, as regular cleanings can help prevent further buildup and potential tooth loss.

It’s also crucial to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home, including brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. These practices can help remove plaque buildup and food particles that can lead to decay if left unchecked.

Preventative dental care treatments are generally not painful and are designed to be as comfortable as possible. These treatments, including regular cleanings, fluoride applications, and dental sealants, aim to prevent the development of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. During a cleaning, for example, you might experience mild sensations from the scaling process but it should not be painful. Most patients find these visits straightforward and stress-free.

Our dental professionals also use gentle techniques and can offer various forms of sedation for those who may feel anxious or have a low pain threshold. The key is to communicate with our dental team about any concerns you have so they can ensure your comfort throughout the treatment.

Typically, the majority of dental insurance plans available in Alberta will cover the cost of preventive dental care which includes routine dental exams, dental cleanings, and annual x-rays.

However:

Some dental plans may cover the partial cost of certain procedures. If you would like a more detailed answer to your specific situation, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us! We’d love to help.