The Importance of Preventative Dentistry

Your oral health is just as important as the rest of your health; however, a lot of people don’t seek the care they need for their smiles until an issue has happened. If this sounds like you, our Provo, UT, dentist, Dr. Gary Wiest, is here to tell you why preventive dentistry is always the best way to go if you want to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for the long run.

What is preventive dentistry?

Have you ever heard the old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure?” If Ben Franklin had followed his own adage when it came to his oral health, maybe he would have kept his teeth. Of course, it’s a good rule to follow when it comes to your own smile. Preventive dentistry refers to habits and care that you can receive or perform yourself that will prevent decay and gum disease from befalling your smile.

Preventive dentistry includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding sugar and eating a healthy diet, protecting your teeth during sports and visiting our Provo general dentist every six months for exams and professional dental cleanings.

Why should I get professional dental cleanings?

If you brush and floss at home you may wonder what these six-month visits can do for your smile. The answer: a whole lot. While you may brush and floss like you should it isn’t always easy to remove plaque from all areas of your teeth and gums, and it doesn’t take long for plaque to harden into tartar. Once tartar sets in the only way to remove it is to come in for routine cleanings. Luckily, we have the proper tools necessary to safely remove plaque and tartar from areas that may be more difficult for you to reach.

Not to mention the fact that a professional dental cleaning isn’t the only thing you will receive if you come into our office. Besides a clean, stain-free smile we will also check for signs of decay, gum disease, infection, oral cancer or other issues.

If dental problems are detected soon enough then you won’t have to undergo more invasive dentistry procedures. Being able to avoid dental procedures is something everyone wants, and by coming in for routine dental exams and preventive dentistry you might never need dental work.

Provo Dental in Provo, UT, is here for you whenever you need dental care. And don’t forget to schedule your upcoming dental cleaning with us. After all, preventive dentistry is your smile’s best friend.