Comprehensive Dentistry is complete, predictable ongoing dental care. This can include regular cleanings and periodontal disease screenings, x-rays of your teeth, measurements of your bite and gums, as well as analysis of your jaw joints and chewing muscles. In short, it’s everything required to maintain or improve your dental health. We love to keep our friends and neighbors in the Tri-Cities smiling!
Below are the biggest benefits of Comprehensive Dentistry:
1. Avoid Cavities
Brushing and flossing alone isn’t enough to avoid decay of tooth enamel (the hard white shell on the surface of your teeth). Although it’s the hardest tissue in the human body, damaged enamel cannot be repaired by the body. Unlike bone, there are no living cells that can regenerate after cracks or chips. While accidents or injuries can cause acute damage to enamel, sugary and acidic food and drinks can also be highly corrosive. Genetic factors, disease, environment, and even habits (like grinding teeth, biting nails or chewing ice) can damage enamel over time.
Once enamel is compromised, there is a high risk of cavities (also known as dental caries). It’s simpler – and less costly – to avoid cavities than to treat them. If you are experiencing pain or sensitivity, you should seek dental care as quickly as possible as they could be signs of a cavity.
2. Gum Disease
Did you know that more than 30 types of bacteria found in our mouths can cause dental decay? Gum disease is more common than most people realize, and it is the number one reason for tooth loss. Daily brushing and flossing help to maintain healthy teeth and gums, but you’ll need regular exams from a dentist to help identify signs of gum disease.
The good news? Gum disease is easily treatable, especially if diagnosed in the early stages! Warning signs include gums that are tender, red, or swollen. Persistent bad breath, besides being embarrassing, can also be a sign of gum disease. If you have loose or sensitive teeth or pain when chewing, it’s important to seek treatment immediately. We often recommend patients with gum disease visit more frequently to treat and maintain the progression of gum disease.
3. Dental Injuries
Another common cause of tooth loss is injury. Common causes of trauma to the mouth are car accidents, falls, and contact sports. Even if you don’t lose a tooth, it is advisable to seek dental care after any injury to the mouth. If a tooth is knocked out, it is critical to seek treatment immediately and take care of the tooth. If possible, handle the tooth only by the crown (chewing surface). If it is not possible to reposition the tooth in the socket, keep the tooth moist. Emergency dental care is critical, as seeking care within 30 minutes of the injury offers the best chances for saving the tooth.
If you or your children frequently engage in contact sports, we recommend a custom-crafted mouthguard. Not only can it help avoid injury, but it will fit much better than an off-the-shelf mouthguard. This makes them more comfortable and less bulky, so they don’t restrict breathing.
4. Teeth Sensitivities
Do you avoid certain foods because they cause pain? Do cold foods and drinks hurt your teeth? Worn tooth enamel can expose the nerves in your teeth! (Yikes!) Although symptoms may vary in intensity or can be relieved by desensitizing toothpaste, the underlying cause will need to be addressed. Besides cavities, sensitivity could be caused by periodontal disease, infections, or TMJ issues. If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or sensitivity, know that the more quickly you seek treatment, the better the prognosis.
5. Establish Good Habits
In addition to brushing and flossing, regular dental exams are critical to a healthy, beautiful smile. Most people should visit a dental office every six months for a cleaning and checkup with a dentist. We see patients of all ages. It is our mission to help people feel comfortable seeing a dentist. We offer comfort dentistry as well as age-appropriate treatments like sealants and fluoride. Comprehensive dentistry is our specialty! Dr. Simper and Dr. Safford want to put you at ease. We offer individualized care – to the highest standards – in an environment that is comfortable and inviting. We want your family’s visits to the dentist to be stress-free and worry-free so you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles!
