Preventive dentistry is the branch of dentistry focused on preventing dental problems and diagnosing them early on when they’re far easier to treat effectively. The team at Brite Smiles Dental Care puts a great deal of emphasis on its preventive dentistry services.

By prioritizing your preventive care and oral hygiene, Dr. Simmons and Dr. Zuidema help significantly limit your risk of oral health concerns such as:

• Gum disease
• Cavities
• Severe tooth decay
• Tooth loss
• Tooth discoloration

In some cases, preventive dentistry also extends into lifestyle habits. Dr. Simmons and Dr. Edstrom can help you incorporate better nutrition into your life, which can have a dramatic impact on the success of your preventive care.

At Brite Smiles Dental Care, the team led by Dr. Simmons and Dr. Edstrom offers a variety of preventive dentistry services, including:

Dental exams

Both Dr. Simmons and Dr. Zuidema perform comprehensive dental exams using small mirrors and, in some cases, imaging technology to examine your teeth and gums. At our practice, we understand the importance of regular dental exams in maintaining good oral health. That's why we recommend scheduling these comprehensive exams at least twice a year.

Dental cleanings

After dental exams, the staff provides professional teeth cleanings that help get rid of plaque you miss when you brush. Getting dental cleanings at least twice annually is a critical part of your preventive care. They help keep your teeth and gums healthy and your breath smelling fresh.

Oral cancer screenings

The staff provides oral cancer screenings to regularly monitor any signs of oral cancer. They look for sores, white or red patches, lumps, and any other potential symptoms. This is an essential part of maintaining overall oral health and is recommended by dental professionals for all individuals, regardless of age or risk factors.

Fluoride treatments

Fluoride is a natural mineral that can be used to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. During a fluoride treatment, a Brite Smiles Dental Care team member has you bite into a fluoride-lined tray. The fluoride solution in the tray will then be left on your teeth for a few minutes, allowing the mineral to penetrate the enamel and provide a protective barrier.

Focusing on preventive dental care is one of the best ways to ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. It helps you avoid serious oral health concerns, including gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Ultimately, preventive dentistry lessens the likelihood that you’ll need costly, invasive dental procedures to treat oral health issues. That means being mindful about preventive dentistry will save you time and money in the long run.

Also, your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. With that in mind, high-quality preventive dentistry and routine dental visits will actually help limit your risk of health concerns, such as heart disease, stroke, and hypertension.