Preventive Odontology

Most dentists recommend a cleaning once a year, but if there are special circumstances, more frequent visits may be needed. At this appointment, the dentist will examine the teeth and gums and discuss any necessary treatment. The dentist or dental hygienist will thoroughly remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth through scaling. The tongue and other areas of the mouth will also be checked for any potential issues.

The best tooth brushing techniques and how to clean between teeth using interdental brushes or dental floss to remove the bacterial plaque that constantly builds up on teeth will be shown and explained. When you eat or drink something sugary, the bacteria in plaque convert the sugar into acid, which can lead to cavities. It is also important to discuss diet and any habits you may have, such as smoking and drinking.

There is a preventive treatment commonly performed on children that involves sealing the pits and fissures (small natural depressions on the tooth surface) of permanent molars. Thin layers of resin or plastic material are applied to the chewing surface of the back teeth. These make the tooth surface smoother and easier to clean, and prevent cavities from forming in hard-to-clean areas.

One of the increasingly used preventive dentistry techniques is the use of soft splints. These devices are commonly recommended to combat bruxism, but their use has positive effects on the teeth and overall dental health. It has been shown that a soft splint helps prevent the onset of tooth sensitivity and excessive tooth wear. They are also used in sports to prevent teeth from breaking or cracking due to impacts or accidents.

Dental hypersensitivity has become one of the key focus areas of preventive dentistry, as it affects 7 out of 10 adults. Treatments focus on providing advice for proper oral hygiene: circular brushing technique, soft-bristled toothbrushes, non-abrasive toothpaste, and flossing. Nutritional habits are also important, avoiding acidic foods and sudden temperature changes. The most common treatment is strengthening tooth enamel with fluoride.