Before you schedule your visit to the dentist, you might check with your insurance provider to verify coverage. Among the terms typically listed with dental insurance plans are preventative dentistry. In many dental plans, this category of dental services is free or only requires a small deductible.
As a patient getting ready to make an appointment, you probably have an interest in learning just what types of dental procedures are considered preventative.
Preventative Dentistry with a Professional
When your insurance company outlines preventative dentistry in terms of coverage plans, it usually means a procedure intended to prevent major issues. Procedures that reduce the risk of more advanced oral health problems requiring major processes should qualify as preventative dentistry.
Here are just a few examples:
Dental Exams & X-Rays
Because routine dental exams, usually every six months or annually, are intended to identify signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or oral cancers early, these visits are considered preventative dental care. As part of these regular visits, your dental professional may also take x-rays to further review for any signs of infection, abscesses, or issues not visible during the oral exam.
Routine Cleanings & Fluoride Treatments
Another service that falls under the umbrella of preventative dentistry is teeth cleaning. Routine cleanings and even fluoride treatments are intended to keep up healthy oral care, removing harmful bacteria and build-up that can lead to plaque, gum disease, and cavities.
Teeth Sealants
In addition to regular fluoride treatments, your dentist might also recommend sealants or special teeth coatings for cavity prevention. These sealants and procedures are also considered to be preventive dentistry.
Mouthguards
For those who engage in contact sports, including teenage and adult athletes, falls and sports engagements often have higher risks of accidents. These could lead to chipped or broken teeth and other mouth traumas. Mouthguards are essential protective equipment in these scenarios and also fall under the category of preventative dentistry.
Preventative Dentistry for Children
In addition to preventative dentistry for adults, there are other procedures that are specific to the oral needs of children that also quality as preventative maintenance.
Managing a child’s oral hygiene also involves baby teeth and the transition to adult teeth, among other unique needs, here are other preventative dentistry measures most common to children.
- Promoting good brushing and flossing habits
- Providing toothbrushes and oral health products
- Cleaning and exams
- Fluoride applications and sealants
- X-rays to track jaw movement and tooth development
- Early detection for orthodontics or specialists needs
- Identify other health issues contributing to a child’s oral health
Preventive Dental Care You Can Do at Home
Aside from the preventative dentistry covered by your insurance, there are preventative measures you can do at home that will improve your oral health.
- Brushing your teeth twice a day
- Flossing and rinsing to remove particles between teeth
- Tongue scraping to reduce bacteria
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Being mindful of acidic and sugary foods and drinks
- Mouthguards at night for those who clench or grind teeth
Benefits of Preventative Dentistry
Preventative dentistry is beneficial to the overall health of your teeth and gums. All the procedures done at home and with a dental professional can reduce and prevent the occurrence of problems, including systemic illness, gum disease, and tooth decay. These measures will promote good oral hygiene habits and allow for the early detection of key issues.
Now that you have definitions and a better understanding of what constitutes preventative dentistry, you’re ready to make the call and schedule your next appointment. Make sure that call is to Eriks Dental Group, your Boynton Beach Dentist. We’ll be your guide in all your preventative dentistry and oral health care needs! Schedule your five-star dental experience today!