Helpful tips on preventive care

A back-to-school dental checkup catches cavities early and establishes good dental habits before the school year starts for children of all ages.

Digital dental x-rays use one-third the radiation of film x-rays and help dentists detect cavities, bone loss, and problems invisible to the naked eye.

Dental hygienists have played a vital role in oral health since 1917, performing professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar to prevent gum disease.

From routine cleanings to deep cleaning, different dental cleaning types are tailored to each patient's level of gum health and oral disease severity.

The ADA reports dental sealants reduce molar cavity risk by nearly 80 percent, and unsealed children are three times more likely to develop tooth decay.

Conventional fillings remain the standard for cavities, but researchers are exploring remineralization techniques that could heal early decay without drilling.

Turkey, sweet potatoes, and cranberries are gentle on teeth at Thanksgiving, especially when followed by drinking water and brushing thoroughly after.

University of Florida researchers are studying beneficial oral bacteria that neutralize acid, potentially leading to a probiotic pill to prevent cavities.

Digital x-rays provide instant images with less radiation than film x-rays and can be shared and enlarged for more precise dental diagnosis.

The ADA recommends a soft-bristled brush for two minutes twice daily using gentle circular motions to clean teeth without damaging gums or enamel.

Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, removes tartar from below the gumline in pockets over five millimeters to treat early periodontal disease.

The most common causes of tooth loss are gum disease, untreated cavities, injury, smoking, and poor nutrition, most of which are preventable with regular care.

Regular cleanings with daily brushing and flossing prevent the gum disease affecting half of adults over 30 and leading to an average of 12 lost teeth.