PREVENTATIVE CARE
The basis of sound dental care is routine cleaning and maintenance. A good home care regimen must be supplemented by regular dental visits to maintain healthy teeth and gums. We customize cleanings based on your periodontal (gum and bone) health. Depending on the status of your oral health, we may recommend more frequent visits than the usual six month recall appointment.
Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If plaque is not removed, gums become inflamed and even bleed. The irritated gum tissue can separate from the teeth and form spaces called pockets. Bacteria move into the pockets where they continue to promote irritation. The early stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. It often results in gums that are red and swollen and may bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a chronic infection in the pockets around the teeth which can lead to bone and other tooth-supporting tissue loss. As a result, teeth can become loose and eventually be lost due to lack of support.
Our goal is to prevent the start and progression of gum disease; however, if you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, we may suggest scaling and root planing. This procedure involves using a small scaler or ultrasonic instrument to carefully remove the plaque and tartar from the periodontal pocket. The removal of these bacterial irritants allows the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the tooth. In addition, we may recommend antibiotic therapy or prescription mouth rinses as an adjunct to scaling and root planing to treat problem areas if necessary.
Once this treatment is completed, we will reevaluate your periodontal pockets at subsequent visits and determine a periodontal maintenance schedule to meet your specific needs. Periodontal disease will not go away on its own or by simple home care. Professional treatment and ongoing management of the disease is the best way to help ensure a healthy smile.
Preventative Care for Kids
A child’s first set of teeth, the primary or “baby” teeth, are more important than most people realize. Healthy primary teeth assist in a child’s ability to chew and speak as well as maintain space in the mouth for the adult or permanent teeth to erupt. To assist in the prevention of tooth decay, it is recommended children eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks. Parents should also ensure proper fluoride levels are met and assist with brushing and flossing until your child has the manual dexterity to use a toothbrush or floss properly. Your child should have a preventative visit with us at least every six months. We will thoroughly check for decay or other developmental problems, clean and polish their teeth, provide a professional fluoride treatment, and reinforce proper home care.
As part of a child’s preventive care, dental sealants may be recommended for your child if he or she has any newly erupted molars and premolars. Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars (back teeth) where plaque tends to accumulate. Sealants cover the chewing surfaces and serve as a barrier to prevent tooth decay.
Get on the Road to a Great Smile!
Call: 203-248-0072
Email: contact@hamdendentistry.com
Visit: 2559 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden, CT
Office Hours
Monday through Thursday
8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Friday
8:30 AM to 12:30 PM