Preventive Dentistry for Waterford Families
Stop Problems Before They Even Begin
Healthy smiles are built on a strong foundation of preventive dentistry. When you visit our office regularly for checkups and cleanings as well as other preventive services, we can help you avoid the need for more costly, complex dental treatments later on. It’s easier to keep a dental problem from occurring in the first place than it is to fix one after the fact — and that’s why Dr. Dinesh Patel focuses heavily on prevention. In fact, one of his favorite things to say to his patients is “The more work you do at home, the less work I have to do here!” To schedule your next preventive appointment, contact us today!
Checkups & Cleanings
Patients of all ages should visit the dentist regularly for a checkup and cleaning. Even if you don’t think anything is necessarily “wrong,” this visit is important because it allows us to remove plaque and tartar buildup from around your teeth and gums in areas that your brush and floss simply can’t reach at home.
Periodontal Therapy
Gum disease is a chronic condition that affects nearly half of American adults over the age of 35. Bleeding, red, and tender gums are some of the chief symptoms. If any of these issues sound familiar to you, periodontal therapy from Dr. Patel can help to protect your smile from tooth loss and the other serious effects of the disease. Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical treatment that is the gold standard of periodontal therapy.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin coverings that help shield the molars and premolars from bacteria and food particles that cause cavities if they are allowed to linger on your teeth. Especially helpful for children and adults, who are vulnerable to tooth decay until their enamel has fully hardened, dental sealants can be painlessly applied within minutes at the end of a checkup and cleaning, and they can provide years of protection against cavities.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer rates are rising in the United States, with approximately one person dying per hour from the disease every day. That’s why Dr. Patel urges patients to receive regular screenings for the disease. Early detection can dramatically increase the chances of successful treatment. An oral cancer screening is a visual and tactile examination in which your dentist looks for lesions and other abnormalities that could indicate the need for further action.
Fluoride Treatments
The mineral fluoride is an invaluable addition to any preventive treatment plan. It can remineralize — or strengthen — weak tooth enamel and help prevent the formation of cavities. While your family probably already receives helpful amounts of fluoride in tap water and your toothpaste, topical fluoride treatments are available at Summit Family Dentistry. These treatments are especially helpful for children, who are more vulnerable to tooth decay in the years while their enamel is still developing.
Emergency Dentistry
You can’t plan for a dental emergency, but you can help yourself be more prepared by knowing who to call when one happens to you. Dr. Patel and our team are ready to help when the unexpected strikes. Whether it’s a broken tooth, a toothache, or anything else that doesn’t feel right in your mouth, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Pediatric Dentistry
Your child’s dental needs are quite different from your own. Cavity prevention is a big focus for growing smiles, and little ones often need an extra-friendly approach before they can feel comfortable at the dentist’s office. As a dentist offering pediatric care, Dr. Patel knows what it takes to build happy and healthy young smiles!
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