Preventive Dentistry
Many people wonder if making it to their biannual dental appointment is really necessary.
The short answer is – yes!
Good preventive care helps reduce your risk for certain illnesses and can help you achieve and maintain the level of excellent oral health that lets you look and feel your best.
Providing Your Medical History
Your biannual visit is a great opportunity to tell your dentist about any issues or discomfort you’ve been experiencing in your mouth. You’ll also want to give a detailed description of your medical history and come prepared with a list of any medications you take.
Knowing your medical history allows your dentist to gain a better understanding of your overall health. After all, there is a strong systemic link between the health of your mouth and the prevalence of many serious health concerns. For example, periodontitis (advanced gum disease) is associated with heart disease, pancreatic cancer, diabetes, and low birth weight in babies born to mothers with the disease.
Examinations
Symptoms of some dental conditions may be so subtle that only a dentist can identify them.
During your visit, your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth and check for signs of tooth decay. You’ll also be evaluated for risk factors associated with illnesses like bone loss and periodontal disease. This way, potential problems can be identified in their early stages while they are easily treatable.
Your dentist will also check your bite and may administer x-rays or recommend other diagnostic measures.
Teeth Cleaning
During your visit, your teeth will be gently and professionally cleaned. Your dental team will meticulously remove hard-to-reach plaque. At this time, you may be given tips on how to improve your at-home care routine, and your hygienist can show you proper procedures for brushing and flossing.
A thorough teeth cleaning not only helps improve the health of your teeth, but also makes them look great! A good cleaning can actually have a whitening effect on your smile. Your cleaning will leave you looking and feeling great.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Don’t miss your biannual visit! Contact our office and schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many reasons your gums could bleed, but in any case you should see a dentist to determine the cause and treatment options as gum condition is closely tied to overall health.
In some cases, if you experience bleeding from your gums when you brush, it may be a sign of gingivitis, the early stage of more serious periodontal disease. Gingivitis is reversible and preventable if effectively treated in consultation with your dentist. You may also experience bleeding if you begin a regimen of flossing, which should dissipate in a week or two.
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Christina Shaw
Dentist
Dr. Christina Shaw holds a BA from Georgetown University, a DMD from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, and an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) certificate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was thrilled to return to her home state of Massachusetts in 2018 after practicing for several years in northern Virginia.
Dr. Shaw believes strongly in continuing education to bring the latest to her patients as well as staying engaged in the dental community to help and learn from colleagues. She is a member ...