Preventive Care

Fluoride helps make tooth structure more resistant to decay and is available through fluoride toothpaste, some mouthrinses and prescription products, community water, and professionally applied products. Fluoride toothpaste is the daily foundation For most people, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is an important part of cavity prevention. The appropriate amount of toothpaste for…

Preventive care combines daily home care with professional evaluation and treatment intended to reduce the likelihood or severity of common dental problems. Plaque control is central Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth daily reduces plaque and supports healthier teeth and gums. Professional visits add what home care cannot Dental visits can…

The type of professional cleaning recommended depends on gum health and whether periodontal disease is present. Routine prophylaxis A routine preventive cleaning is generally used for patients without active periodontitis who need plaque, calculus, and stain removal. Scaling and root planing When periodontitis is diagnosed, deeper nonsurgical periodontal treatment may be used to remove deposits…

Mouthrinse can be helpful for some patients, but the best product depends on the goal and it does not replace brushing or cleaning between teeth. Cosmetic versus therapeutic rinses Some rinses mainly freshen breath, while therapeutic products may contain fluoride or ingredients intended to reduce plaque, gingivitis, or sensitivity. Choose based on your needs A…

Professional cleanings remove plaque and hardened calculus from areas that are difficult to clean completely at home. Home care and professional care complement each other Daily brushing and interdental cleaning control plaque between visits; professional instruments can remove calculus that home tools cannot safely remove. The visit is also an opportunity to evaluate changes Preventive…

What you eat matters, but how often teeth are exposed to sugars and acids also affects cavity and erosion risk. Limit frequent sugar exposure Bacteria use fermentable carbohydrates to produce acids that can contribute to tooth decay. Frequent sipping and snacking can extend those acid exposures. Choose water often Water does not feed cavity-causing bacteria…

Sugar-free chewing gum can be a useful addition to oral care for some people because chewing stimulates saliva, but gum does not replace brushing or interdental cleaning. Choose sugar-free gum Gum containing sugar can add repeated carbohydrate exposure. Look for sugar-free products, including products with the ADA Seal when available. Saliva helps after meals Increased…

A toothbrush should be rinsed after use, allowed to air-dry, and replaced when worn. Keeping it clean supports an effective brushing routine. Rinse and air-dry After brushing, rinse away toothpaste and debris and store the brush upright where it can dry between uses. Do not routinely share toothbrushes Sharing can exchange saliva and microorganisms. Replace…

Very early enamel demineralization may sometimes be managed with preventive measures, but a true cavitated lesion generally needs professional evaluation and often restorative treatment. Fluoride supports remineralization Fluoride toothpaste, appropriate professional fluoride, saliva, and reduced sugar frequency can help strengthen enamel that has begun to lose minerals. A hole does not grow back Once tooth…

Regular dental visits support prevention, professional cleaning, and early evaluation of changes in the teeth and gums. What happens at preventive visits A preventive visit may include review of health changes, examination of teeth and gums, professional cleaning, appropriate radiographs, and recommendations based on your individual risk and history. Home care still does the daily…