What Is Preventative Dentistry?

Preventative dentistry refers to methods that can help avoid more expensive and painful dental procedures in the future.  There is an emphasis on proper oral care at home in order to prevent decay or disease before it even gets started.  The proper focus on preventative care can let a patient enjoy good oral health with healthy gums and teeth throughout his life.

What Are Examples of Preventative Dentistry?

The most common examples of preventative dentistry are daily brushing, daily flossing, and daily rinsing.  If these are done at least twice a day, many more serious dental problems will be avoided.  However, it is important to carry out these oral hygiene habits properly.  Dentists recommend the use of a soft, nylon toothbrush that has round-ended bristles.  Holding the toothbrush at a recommended 45-degree angle provides proper coverage of the tooth surface and gum line.  The patient should move the brush gently back and forth in order to brush away any plaque or tarter off the surface of the teeth and gum line.  It is also important to brush the insides of teeth as well as the easier-to-reach outsides of the teeth.  Make a special effort to get to hard-to-reach places in the back.  The patient can use floss to reach places between the teeth that the toothbrush can’t reach.  The most effective flossing technique is to take an 18-inch strip of floss and wrap it around the middles finger of each hand.  Place the floss between the teeth and use the thumbs to direct the movements of the floss.  Use the floss to gently scrape plaque from between the teeth.  It is helpful to also floss below the gum line in order to remove plaque that has lodged under the gum line.  Lastly, use a rinse that is specifically designed to kill bacteria and germs.  Some mouthwash is nothing more than a breath freshener.