The Role of a Family Dentist in Preventive Care

A family dentist serves as the front line of defense for oral health and preventive care. They can see patients from childhood all the way through their lives, allowing for a level of continued care, attention, and personal knowledge that is unmatched among other types of dental offices. If you are considering what kind of dentist to see, a family dentist can be a great choice, even if you are already an adult.

Preventive care from a family dentist

Family dentists typically focus on preventive care to stop big problems while they are still small. The main ways that they achieve this are as follows.

Prophylactic cleanings

Prophylactic (or preventive) cleanings tackle tough plaque and tartar before they can irritate the gums and contribute to issues like gum disease, also known as gingivitis. A family dentist will use scalers, polishers, floss, and other tools to get the teeth cleaner than patients can on their own.

As an added advantage, teeth that are cleaned this way are not only aesthetically pleasing but also smooth. This makes it more difficult for bacteria to cling to them, prolonging good oral health.

Guidance and education

Another way that family dentists contribute to preventive care is through education and in-office guidance. If the dentist notices patterns in how a patient’s teeth are decaying or where bacteria build up, they may be able to offer education on better brushing methods. This could include what direction to angle the toothbrush bristles, what kind of electronic toothbrush to use, how to get floss not to shred, and so on. These tidbits can equip patients with the skills that they need to take charge of their own oral well-being.

Fluoride treatments

The teeth need to remain strong to combat the acidic residue left by bacterial colonies. One way to ensure that the enamel does not soften is by treating it with fluoride, which a family dentist can apply right after a patient’s normal cleaning appointments. Fluoride treatment is simple and only requires the patient to sit without swallowing for a minute or two.

Oral cancer exams

One of the less commonly noticed but essential tasks of a family dentist is to check for oral cancer. They examine the cheeks, gums, tongue, palate, and other areas to find evidence of any lesions, sore spots, lumps, or discoloration that could indicate an issue. Early treatment is the best way to keep patients safe and help them make a quick and complete recovery.

Trust a family dentist for preventive care

If you are debating which type of dentist to trust with your oral healthcare, a family dentist can be a great choice. They are familiar with dental health problems over the entire course of a person’s life, so they can provide customized guidance no matter where you are on your journey. Contact our office to schedule an appointment to meet our family dentist and try a cleaning for yourself!

Request an appointment here: https://compassiondentistry.com or call Compassion Family Dentistry at (503) 445-9579 for an appointment in our Milwaukie office.

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