Preventive Dentistry

The expression that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” certainly applies to dentistry. The best way to avoid costly and involved dental work is preventive dentistry, which includes routine dental cleanings and at-home oral care. At Trinity Dental Care in Bedford, Texas, Gunda Gayathri, DDS, and her team provide preventive dentistry services to keep your teeth looking and feeling their best. Schedule an appointment online or over the phone today.

Why do I need to have regular dental cleanings and checkups?

Regular dental cleanings and checkups are one of the best things you can do for your teeth because they often prevent the need for major dental work. Dr. Gayathri recommends getting a cleaning at Trinity Dental Care at least twice a year.

When you come in for a cleaning, Dr. Gayathri looks closely at your teeth and gums so she can detect any dental and oral health issues in their early stages. Her assessment includes screening for oral cancer, taking X-rays when needed, and making sure that any restorations, such as implants, crowns, and fillings, are in good shape.

During your cleaning, your dental hygienist removes built-up plaque and tartar. The longer this buildup remains in your mouth, the harder it is to remove, and the more likely it is to cause problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

At Trinity Dental Care, the team uses specialized dental equipment to deep clean your teeth. In addition to removing plaque and tartar, your hygienist gets rid of stains on the surface of your teeth, resulting in a brighter smile. While brushing and flossing at home are crucial to the health of your teeth and gums, they don’t have the same effect as a dental cleaning at Trinity Dental Care.

Should dental cleanings hurt?

You may avoid going to the dentist because you’re worried it’ll hurt. There may be some truth to your worries if you haven’t been practicing good dental hygiene. If you've neglected to brush at least twice a day and floss daily, you may experience discomfort when you get your teeth cleaned. That’s because the more buildup you have, the more work it is for your hygienist to remove.

For your dental health, it’s essential to break the cycle and make dental cleanings part of your routine. The thorough, but gentle, cleaning you receive at Trinity Dental Care may come as a pleasant surprise. The team helps you feel comfortable during your cleaning, and if necessary, you may receive a local anesthetic to prevent gum pain. Once you get in the habit of taking care of your teeth, dental cleanings are nearly painless.

How do I prevent dental problems between cleanings?

Preventive dentistry appointments at Trinity Dental Care are just one part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. It’s also important to practice good dental hygiene at home, which includes brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Rinsing with mouthwash can also help prevent tartar and plaque buildup.

Your diet also affects your teeth. Eat a healthy, balanced diet, low in sugars and simple carbohydrates, and be sure to drink plenty of water.

Schedule a preventive dentistry appointment at Trinity Dental Care online or over the phone.