WHY VISIT A FAMILY DENTIST?
Visiting a family dentist mobile alabama is a great way to ease your child into a new environment since they will be able to go with you to the same office and see the same dentist! A family dentist is able to provide dental care for everyone in your family, from baby’s first tooth all the way into adulthood. Elderly members of the family are also able to receive the same caring treatment.
Preventative dental care
Dental health is an important part of our overall health. Visiting your family dentist regularly helps provide the care and attention your teeth and gums need that we cannot manage on our own. Preventing disease and decay is easier and less costly than treating it, so sticking to the schedule your dentist recommends for the frequency of your cleanings can be important.
Early detection of gum disease is crucial as it can lead to other health issues. Patients with periodontal disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar and have a higher risk of stroke and heart disease. Periodontal disease is also the biggest culprit of tooth loss. Luckily, with regular visits to your family dentist, gum disease can be caught, treated and prevented.
Maintaining dental health
Your family dentist is trained to detect abnormalities in your oral tissue, including your gums, cheeks and tongue. Oral cancer screening can be provided at your cleanings along with your annual dental x-rays. Your dentist will study your x-rays to be sure your teeth are healthy and show no signs of decay. They will also be able to see any bone loss in your jaw that could cause problems in the future and help you learn how best to avoid further deterioration.
Your family dentist is also skilled in providing restorative treatment when necessary. Some corrective treatments may include:
- Fillings, or tooth colored restorations, for small areas of decay; the decay is removed and a composite material matching the color of your tooth is placed to maintain the integrity of the tooth.
- Crowns are placed when a tooth is compromised beyond the ability of a filling or if the tooth is fractured; a crown covers the whole tooth to keep it stable for year to come.
- Bridges are one option used to replace a missing tooth. Two crowns with a pontic (fake tooth) between them are fabricated as a single until. This is place over the two teeth adjacent to the missing one and the gap is filled!
- Dentures are used to replace a significant number of missing teeth. Partial dentures replace a few missing teeth in one area and a full denture replaces all of your teeth.
- Teeth whitening is an option to help give you a brighter smile.
Most patients can maintain a six month check up schedule but there are times that your frequency needs may increase. Ask your family dentist if you have any concerns. If you keep a habit of proper home care, brushing and flossing daily, you and your dentist will keep your smile healthy and beautiful together.
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