Patrick C Smith DDS
Exceptional Dentistry For A Lifetime
Preventive & Proactive Dental Care
What is Preventive & Proactive Dental Care?
Preventive and proactive dental care are essential components of maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems before they arise. While they are often used interchangeably, they have distinct focuses. Preventive Dental Care focuses on routine practices and treatments designed to prevent dental issues and maintain oral health. Proactive Dental Care involves identifying and addressing potential issues early through advanced planning, risk assessment, and early intervention.
Professional Dental Cleanings
How often should I have my teeth cleaned?
The general recommendation for dental cleanings is every six months. However, the optimal frequency can vary based on individual needs and oral health conditions. Dr. Smith will determine the best cleaning schedule for your specific situation by considering your general oral health, the presence of gum disease, your overall health, lifestyle factors, and dental history. Regular check-ups allow Dr. Smith & his team to monitor your oral health and make personalized recommendations.
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Gum Therapy
How do I know if I need gum therapy?
Determining whether you need gum therapy (periodontal treatment) often involves recognizing specific symptoms and signs of gum disease. Some signs you might notice are chronic bad breath, red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, or pain or discomfort. However, only a dentist can diagnose periodontal disease. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices are key to preventing gum disease and catching it early if it does develop.
Signs you may have Gum Disease
Chronic bad breath
Red or swollen gums
Bleeding gums
Pain or discomfort
Dry Mouth Treatment
Can my teeth be harmed by having a chronic dry mouth?
Yes, persistent dry mouth (xerostomia) can harm your teeth and overall oral health. Along with causing bad breath, It increases your chances of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections.
It’s important to consult with Dr. Smith so that he along with your healthcare provider can identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Possible Causes of dry mouth
Dehydration
Mouth breathing
Medications
Nerve Damage
Diseases
Airway Screening
Why is it important to have my airway checked?
By checking your airway, Dr. Smith is ensuring that any potential issues related to breathing and airway function are identified and addressed early. If there are any concerns, he can refer you to a specialist, such as an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor, sleep specialist, or orthodontist, for further evaluation and treatment.
Sleep apnea symptoms may include
Snoring
Insomnia
Morning Headaches
Dry mouth
Waking up gasping or choking