In the fields of health, wellness and medicine, prevention is definitely better than a cure.
When we proactively take care of our teeth, we reduce the likelihood of cavities, decay and infection. Many people face dental health difficulties as a result of neglecting their teeth, which creates other health issues down the line.
Plenty of the good habits we have in our lives are preventive in nature. When we exercise, eat more vegetables and drink more water, it’s to reduce the chance of us having a serious illness, and to make our immune systems stronger so that our bodies are better at fighting off infection.
Right now, there’s a huge discussion all over the world about preventive medicine, and what can be done for our society to be more focused on preventing disease instead of treating it.
The belief is that if more people focused on health management, not disease management, many medical emergencies wouldn’t happen. There are many conditions that would be eliminated by this approach.
So, what is the true goal of preventive dentistry? Is it to make us not need the dentist anymore or for us to treat our teeth any way we want? Read on to find out!
The Goal of Preventive Dentistry
The overarching goal of preventive dentistry is for patients to keep their natural teeth in as good a condition as possible, for as long as possible. Anything important in our lives needs to be taken care of for it to remain in great condition. Being born with a great set of teeth means we need to be responsible and dedicated to keeping them that way, instead of neglecting them.
When patients work on preventing dental issues, their risk of infection goes down significantly. It means plaque won’t build up, teeth wouldn’t stain, and many people wouldn’t suffer bone damage.
Dental Maintenance Plan
One of the key parts of preventive dentistry is having a maintenance plan for your teeth. Your car has a service plan, which lets you know when it would need to go in for a regular tune-up.
In dentistry, you would be given something similar so that you’re regularly going for dental cleanings and assessments. With a car, you also have to maintain it by washing it, getting oil and filter changes, and other important actions.
Preventive dentistry also has an at-home component that you need to follow, so that you and your dentist are working towards your healthy teeth together.
What Are the Best Habits for Oral Health and Preventive Dentistry?
- Brush your teeth daily to remove plaque and kill bacteria.
- Floss daily to clean in between the teeth.
- Go for regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Don’t consume too many sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Wear mouth guards to protect your mouth when necessary.
Preventive Dentistry Colorado Springs
Ultimately, the goal of preventive dentistry is to preserve your teeth and your smile for your lifetime. Dr. Andrew Hall offers comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry services to patients in Colorado Springs.
If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate dentist, please contact The Studio for Exceptional Dentistry online or call our office at 709-602-2614 to schedule your personal consultation
