Some patients avoid the dentist and miss out on the oral care they truly need. Without preventative dentistry, these individuals will eventually experience declining dental health and an onslaught of painful problems. Leslie B. Anthony, DMD and her team in Kalispell, MT, emphasize prevention in their practice, so you can avoid these issues altogether.

Here, Dr. Anthony has provided an overview of preventative dentistry methods and why they’re so important to your well-being.

What Is Preventative Dentistry?

Brushing & Flossing

The goal of preventative dentistry is to stave off oral issues such as cavities and gum disease. Dentists recommend a combination of preventative treatments for the best results. At home, you should brush and floss twice daily in addition to the following recommendations.

Sealants

General dentistry professionals can apply sealants to teeth that are more susceptible to buildup. This thin coating is typically applied to the deep grooves of back molars to prevent decay. Many dentists recommend patients receive this treatment at any early age for optimal results.

Annual Dental Exams

It pays to visit your dentist once per year for a thorough examination and cleaning. A professional cleaning ensures plaque is completely removed and your enamel is protected. Plus, a checkup allows your dental care provider to catch problems before they require a filling, root canal, or even extraction to correct.

Why Do I Need Preventative Dentistry?

Preventative dentistry protects against plaque and tartar buildup that leads to gum disease, gingivitis, bad breath, and other dreaded symptoms. Preventative care also benefits your overall well-being. For example, bad dental health can lead to complex conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and heart disease. Finally, preventative dentistry is far more affordable than other dental work, so staying on top of your routine will save you money in the long run.

Proactive oral care prevents a lifetime of problems that are painful and expensive to fix. Let Leslie B. Anthony, DMD use her 25 years of experience to evaluate your current routine and develop a plan that will keep your smile in perfect shape. Call (406) 752-8161 to schedule an appointment or visit the website for more information.