Preventative Dentistry

What is preventive dental care?

Preventive dental care is all the things you do (or should do) to take care of your teeth and gums: brushing, flossing, eating a healthy diet, and seeing your dentist regularly to help avoid dental disease.  In dentistry, an ounce of prevention truly is worth a pound of cure.

Why is preventive dental care important?


How often should I see my dentist?

We suggest once every six months. Depending on your current dental health, your dental history, your risk factors for dental disease, and your personal preference, we may suggest more frequent visits.  Most of our patients with average dental health seem to do well with a six month recall system.

What does the American Dental Association say about routine dental care?

The ADA recommends the following steps for good dental health:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day with ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.
  • Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

What questions should I ask my dentist about routine dental care?

  • Am I at risk for dental diseases? If so, why? What changes should I make in my routine dental care to help control this risk?