Preventive Care

Understanding The Basics Of Dental Care

What Is Preventive Dentistry?

As the name implies, preventive dentistry is focused on preventing serious oral health problems before they happen. Most oral diseases like cavities and gum disease are completely preventable with regular dental care and proper at-home oral hygiene. At our dentist office, we offer a full range of preventive treatments, and we also can provide the advice and information you need to protect your oral health at home.

What Is Done During Your Dental Examination

A Teeth Cleaning & Oral Exam

To begin the process of your dental examination and teeth cleaning, our team may take x-rays. We usually recommend x-rays every year, but this may vary depending on your oral health. Once this is done, your dental hygienist will clean your teeth by scraping away plaque and tartar with a tool called a “scaler.
Next, your hygienist will use a special, high-powered brush and gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. This helps smooth your teeth and can even remove some surface stains. Then, they will floss between your teeth to eliminate any remaining food debris.

After this, Dr. Bancroft will come into your operating room for your oral exam. She will look for signs of gum disease, cavities, and other oral diseases like oral cancer. Once she’s done, she will discuss your oral health with you, answer any questions you may have. She will also let you know if you need to schedule any follow-up treatments and when to schedule your next dental checkup.

Prevent Cavity Formation With Regular Dental Checkups

Dental Sealants

Dental Sealants are mostly used for kids but can be used in cavity-prone patients of all ages. In this treatment, a layer of dental resin is applied to the rear teeth. Then, this liquid resin is hardened with UV light to create a transparent, durable barrier. This barrier stops acid, bacteria, and food particles from contacting the teeth and causing cavities.

Advanced Dental Care For Your Oral Health

Fluoride Treatments As Part Of Your Dental Exam

Fluoride treatments are typically performed as part of an oral exam and teeth cleaning. Dr. Bancroft will apply fluoride varnish to each of your teeth, then rinse it away after a few minutes. Then, the fluoride attracts calcium and other minerals to your tooth enamel. This strengthens your teeth and helps prevent the formation of cavities.

Protect Your Gums With Dental Treatments

Periodontal Care From A Dentist Near You

Gum disease is the leading cause of premature tooth loss. At Carmel Valley Dental, Dr. Bancroft offers gum disease treatments such as deep cleaning (scaling & root planing) to eliminate the bacteria that cause gum disease and protect your oral health. With our help, you can get your gum disease under control and prevent further damage to your teeth.