A general dentistry practice focuses its efforts on diagnosing, managing and treating oral health problems such as gum disease, cavities and other oral infections. Patients of all ages are at risk of developing gum disease, which is why it is so important to regularly visit a general dentist for a checkup.
There are a few ways that a general dentistry practice can help patients prevent gum disease from developing. Ready to learn more?
Preventing gum disease through general dentistry checkups
The following information highlights how regular general dentistry checkups can help prevent gum disease.
Routine cleanings
General dentistry offices offer patients of all ages routine cleanings, which can significantly lower the chances of gum disease from forming. Routine cleanings are usually done every six months, however, they can be done on a more frequent basis, based on the patient’s wishes or the general dentist’s recommendation. When gum disease is a concern, dentists usually recommend routine cleanings every three to four months.
Plaque and tartar are what tend to cause gum disease, and when it gets built up beneath the gums, they are likely to become infected. However, with the help of routine cleanings, the gums are less likely to suffer from gum disease. The goal of these cleanings is to thoroughly clean the teeth and gum lines.
When routine cleanings are done on a regular basis, patients will be less likely to develop gum disease. Brushing and flossing every day is very important for both the teeth and gums, however, routine cleanings from a general dentistry practice very effective at preventing gum disease and other oral infections.
Thorough examinations
Routine checkups at a general dentistry office tend to involve a thorough examination of the entire mouth. The general dentist will carefully examine the teeth and the gums to check for any abnormalities or red flags that may indicate a problem.
If during the exam, there are any red flags of gum disease development, the general dentist can take the appropriate measures to prevent gum disease from furthering.
General dentistry preventive measures
Preventing gum disease can be done through regular cleanings and thorough examinations. However, if the general dentist notices any indicators that gum disease may soon develop, they can also perform a few different things to prevent it.
The most common preventive measures for gum disease in general dentistry include performing a dental deep cleaning or scaling and root planing. General dentists can also prescribe a gingival mouthwash, which helps reduce inflammation and increase healthy gums.
These preventive measures are done to prevent gum disease, however, it is up to the patient to maintain regular checkups with a dentist.
When was your last dental checkup?
Gum disease can be extremely harmful to the entire mouth, which is why it is crucial to regularly visit a general dentistry office. Questions and concerns regarding gum disease and prevention should be addressed by a general dentist. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://muhlenbergdental.com or call Muhlenberg Dental Associates at (610) 844-9825 for an appointment in our Reading office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Recent Posts
Looking for an emergency dentist in case your child experiences a dental emergency? It is a good idea to plan ahead of time. While some pediatric dentists offer emergency dental services, not all do. However, those who do, understand the importance of providing emergency dental care services, especially when the emergency has to do with…
Finding out that you need a root canal can be nerve-racking. Caring for the treated tooth can be even more stressful. Knowing what to do after the treatment can help you prepare well for it. Here are some tips for a smooth and quick recovery after your root canal.The patient must wait to eat as…
A regular dental cleaning is vital for maintaining optimal oral health. While many people understand the importance of these appointments, the specifics of what happens during dental cleanings may remain a bit mysterious.In this review, we discuss the procedure of a typical dental cleaning, providing insight into the process and highlighting its significance in preventive…
Looking for information on general dentistry preventive care? Many people think that routine appointments with a dentist are just for cleanings and examinations, however, that is far from the truth. These routine appointments can also be used for preventive care. Preventive care helps to keep the patient's teeth and gums in good oral health, by…