Prevenative Dentistry An Overview
Dr. Hoard will recommend how often to have routine checkups. Most patients visit twice per year to maintain optimal health and esthetics. During your routine visit, Dr. Hoard will examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems.
Establishing a routine for dental cleanings and exams allows us to catch problems in their earliest stage and recommend the most conservative treatment options.
Preventive Dentistry is a part of Dr. Steven Hoard general dentistry offerings to New Bern, North Carolina. He is a family dentist in New Bern, NC.
Prevenative Dentistry What to Expect
During Your Visit
Our dental hygienist will begin to clean your teeth by scraping hard mineral buildup (tartar) off of your teeth with a small metal tool. Then the hygienist will floss your teeth, use a polishing compound, and apply fluoride. Cleanings usually aren’t painful.
Occasionally Dr. Hoard will want to take X-rays. We have incorporated digital X-rays into our office so they are done faster and with less exposure to radiation.
If necessary, Dr. Hoard will put a sealant on the chewing surface of your back teeth to help prevent cavities. Sealants keep food and bacteria from getting stuck in the rough chewing surfaces or grooves of your teeth, and they protect your teeth from plaque.
We may also apply a fluoride solution directly to your teeth to help prevent tooth decay. For some patients, a series of fluoride applications may be necessary.
If you are prone to infections, or if infections are particularly dangerous for you, you may need to take antibiotics before you have some types of dental work. You may need to take antibiotics if you:
- Have certain heart problems that make it dangerous for you to get a heart infection called endocarditis.
- Have an impaired immune system.
- Had recent major surgeries or have man-made body parts, such as an artificial hip or heart valve.
If you have active tooth decay or gum disease, your Dr. Hoard will talk to you about changing your brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, he may recommend antibiotics or other dental treatments.
Your mouth is the gateway to your body. Gum disease can contribute to a number of health problems including heart disease, diabetes and pregnancy related complications. Don’t sacrifice your dental health. Contact our dentist in New Bern NC today to schedule your consultation for an initial dental exam.
