Preventative Dentistry
Preventative dentistry focuses on practices and treatments that help maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevent future dental problems. It includes routine check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and advice on proper oral hygiene habits to keep your smile healthy.
Dental Cleanings & Exams
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year for routine exams and professional cleanings that support optimal oral health. At Neal Family Dentistry, Dr. Neal and his team are committed to providing high-quality cleanings and comprehensive preventive exams to help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
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These professional cleanings effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup, which are key in maintaining healthy teeth and gums, while also helping to eliminate surface stains for a brighter, more confident smile. During your appointment, we will assess your overall oral health, review your oral hygiene habits, examine your bite and jaw, evaluate your risk for decay, gum disease, and oral cancer, assess existing restorations, and take necessary dental x-rays. Consistent cleanings and exams are vital for keeping your mouth healthy and your smile radiant.
Dental Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral health requires regular professional cleanings, but equally important is practicing good dental hygiene at home. Dr. Neal recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily to help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. Check out this resource from the ADA on How to Floss.
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Additional steps to keep your teeth strong and healthy include using fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses, eating a balanced diet, and limiting sugary snacks. Drinking water after meals can help rinse away food particles and sugars, while waiting about 30 minutes before brushing after consuming acidic foods or drinks like soda or candy allows saliva to neutralize acids and protect your enamel.
Oral Cancer Screenings
When identified in its initial stages, oral cancer is more easily treatable, less invasive, and has a higher success rate. As the disease progresses, it is more likely to spread, necessitating complex treatment options. Dr. Neal recommends having an oral cancer screening at least once a year to identify any irregularities early, significantly increasing the likelihood of successful treatment.
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During your screening, Dr. Neal will carefully examine your mouth, throat, lips, gums, and tongue for any abnormalities. Be sure to inform us of any symptoms such as difficulty speaking, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue; persistent sore throat; lumps; unexplained weight loss; or mouth sores that won’t heal. While anyone can develop oral cancer, risk factors like being male, using tobacco, genetic predisposition, sun exposure, poor diet, heavy alcohol use, and GERD can increase your likelihood.
Fluoride Treatment
At Neal Family Dentistry, we offer fluoride treatments to help prevent tooth decay and protect your smile. Dr. Neal recommends fluoride application especially for infants and children between 6 months and 16 years, when primary and permanent teeth are still developing. The fluoride is typically applied as a varnish with a brush, which strengthens the teeth by making them more resistant to decay-causing plaque and sugars. It also promotes re-mineralization and can help neutralize acids that erode tooth enamel.
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In addition to in-office fluoride treatments, you can reinforce your oral health at home using fluoride-enhanced toothpaste and mouth rinses. Over-the-counter mouth rinses contain lower fluoride levels, while stronger options can be prescribed if necessary. Dr. Neal will advise on the appropriate fluoride needs for your child or yourself. Our goal is to provide the highest quality care, including safe and effective fluoride use, to help you maintain a healthy, lasting smile.
Sealants
At Neal Family Dentistry, we recognize the effectiveness of sealants in preventing cavities on your molars and premolars, which are especially vulnerable due to their deep grooves and fissures. Typically, we recommend placing sealants on children’s permanent molars and premolars as soon as they come in, providing protection throughout the cavity-prone years of 6 to 14. However, adults who have healthy molars without decay or fillings can also benefit from sealants to help maintain their oral health.
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The application process is straightforward and quick. First, we thoroughly clean and dry the teeth, then apply a liquid sealant to the chewing surfaces. Afterwards, a curing light is used to harden the sealant, creating a durable barrier that shields enamel from plaque and acids. Sealants can last several years before needing reapplication, continuously guarding your teeth from decay as long as they remain intact. It’s important to remember that sealants complement good oral hygiene practices—they are not a substitute for brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings, and they do not protect between the teeth, so daily flossing remains essential.