Walking you through ways to protect your teeth from damage in 6 Frequently Asked Questions
There is no “silver bullet” when it comes to preventative care for your teeth, gums, and mouth. At the Art of Dentistry, we do many things well to protect your mouth from threats such as dental decay and periodontal or gum disease. Here, our team in Lilburn, Georgia, is pleased to compile answers to a few of the common questions that we get from our valued patients about these and related services to keep your mouth healthy and looking its best.
How often do I have to visit the dentist?
Regular dental visits or check-ups are fundamental to preventive dental care. It is generally advised that even healthy patients at low to normal risk of dental disease visit us at least two times per year. These six-month check-ups include a comprehensive exam by our dentist, Dr. Moosa Dalwai, as well as professional cleanings by one of our skilled dental hygienists.
What if I smoke? How often do I need to visit?
If you smoke or use other products that contain tobacco or nicotine, you are at increased risk of conditions such as oral cancer and gum disease. We may recommend more frequent appointments to keep your mouth healthy. Our team also partners with patients to help minimize these risks to their oral and overall health.
Am I considered to be an “at-risk” patient?
During regular appointments, we will identify and stay on top of any risks or threats to your good oral health. Tooth decay and gum disease are largely the leading causes of tooth loss. You may be at elevated risk of developing these and other oral conditions if you smoke, have diseases that interfere with healing and immunity (such as diabetes), or have behaviors such as teeth grinding (bruxism). Additionally, your diet, genes, and the medications used to treat diseases can also play a role in your risk of developing oral disease.
How do I know if I am brushing or flossing my teeth right?
We are pleased to provide recommendations that are specific to your situation to help you better clean your teeth, gums, and other areas of the mouth that harbor bacteria. There is an “art” to brushing and flossing properly. We can demonstrate good technique and may even recommend special products (like floss threaders or picks) to help to remove food particles, bacteria, and plaque from tight or hard-to-reach spaces.
How can dental sealants help me?
Sealants are among the many professional preventative services available at The Art of Dentistry. These thin layers of safe and clear plastic are painlessly and quickly applied to the back teeth by Dr. Dalwai. The back-most molars are vulnerable to decay, due to their locations as well as their grooved and pitted surface areas. The application of sealant helps to keep out food and other “nasties” that can seep into or get stuck in the uneven surfaces of these teeth.
Is fluoride safe?
Dr. Dalwai takes great care to select only the safest clinically proven materials and products. So, yes, you can benefit from fluoride supplements at our office without worry! This naturally occurring mineral helps to keep the protective enamel covering of our teeth strong, and we even offer a powerful and unique “twist” on traditional fluoride. SDF (Silver Diamine Fluoride) is also formulated with other bacteria-fighting ingredients and is highly concentrated for maximum effectiveness at protecting against decay and cavities.
There is no time like the present to benefit from our approach to preventing rather than treating existing damage. Get into a healthy habit today by scheduling a check-up. Call our office in Lilburn, GA, at (470) 570-9699.
