Preventative Dentistry in Charlotte, NC

5 Best Preventive Dentistry Tips to Keep Your Smile Bright

1. Get regular dental checkups and cleanings.

This one is pretty obvious, but it’s worth repeating! Getting regular dental checkups and cleanings is the best way to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. Be sure to see your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.

2. Brush your teeth twice a day.

Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most important things you can do to prevent dental problems. Be sure to brush for two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste.

3. Floss daily.

Flossing is just as important as brushing, so be sure to do it every day! Flossing helps to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.

4. Eat a healthy diet.

Eating a healthy diet is good for your overall health—and your oral health! Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, which can cause cavities, and opt for crunchy fruits and vegetables, which help to clean your teeth as you eat them.

5. Don’t smoke.

Smoking is bad for your health—and your smile! Smoking can cause yellowing of the teeth, bad breath, and an increased risk of gum disease and oral cancer. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your oral health.

Preventive Dentistry Treatments: Why They're Important

1. Dental Sealants 

Dental sealants are thin, clear, or white coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Sealants protect the teeth from decay by sealing off the grooves and pits that are most susceptible to decay. Sealants are typically applied to children’s teeth as soon as they come in, but they can also be applied to adults’ teeth.

2. Fluoride Treatments 

Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay. Fluoride treatments are typically applied to the teeth of children and adults who are at high risk for tooth decay. Fluoride treatments can be in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish that is applied to the teeth, or they can be in the form of a rinse that is swished around in the mouth and then spits out.

3. Dental Cleanings 

Dental cleanings, also called prophylaxis, are professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, and tartar is hardened plaque that has not been removed. Dental cleanings are important for preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

4. X-Rays 

Dental X-rays are used to detect problems such as cavities, bone loss, and impacted teeth. X-rays are typically taken every one to two years, depending on the individual’s risk for dental problems.

What many people don’t realize is just how important preventive care really is when it comes to maintaining good oral health. Sure, brushing and flossing regularly are great habits to have—but those alone aren’t enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy over time. Regular visits to your dentist are essential for catching any problems early on and making sure that your smile stays bright for years to come! 

At Inspired Dentistry of Charlotte, we want our patients in the Charlotte NC area to feel confident about their smiles! That’s why we offer a wide range of preventive dentistry services designed specifically with you in mind. If you haven’t seen a dentist recently or if it has been a while since your last checkup, now is the perfect time to get proactive about your oral health care! Contact us today for more information about our preventive dentistry in Charlotte – we can’t wait to hear from you!