Preventive Dentistry Lincroft NJ
PREVENTIVE SERVICES include Intra-oral & Extra-oral Exams and X-rays, Diagnostic & Preventive Services. Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X–rays also help determine tooth and root positions, missing teeth, and TMJ problems. Radiographs can be taken outside the mouth (panoramic and 3-D).
Oral cancer screening: Dr Lichtenstein will check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheek tissues, gums and lymph nodes for any signs of oral & pharyngeal cancer.
What is preventive dentistry?
Preventive dentistry can help identify problems early on before these dental problems become worse and often more costly. Services typically include the following:
- Promoting good dental habits, including brushing and flossing, guidance on thumb sucking, as well as advice on eating habits that help improve dental health
- Regular teeth cleanings and oral exams, usually every 6 months
- Fluoride application including adults with dry mouth conditions especially needing fluoride to prevent gum line decay
- Sealants (including adults and seniors who may not do good oral hygiene)
- Routine X-rays to help track jaw and teeth development
- Fitting athletic mouth guards and bite guards for severe grinding situations
- Referrals to orthodontists if teeth are crooked or the bite relationships are bad
- Helping identify related health issues that may impact dental health
What are the benefits of preventive dentistry?
Regular preventive dental exams provide the following benefits to your oral health:
- Lowers your risk for developing tooth decay, gum disease, and more serious dental problems.
- Helps promote good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing.
- Early identification of dental problems may help minimize treatment and cost.
- Enables your dentist to do a full exam of your mouth, jaw, neck and TMJ, etc. to identify any related problems.
- Helps reduce dental problems related to some chronic medical conditions. Diabetes, osteoporosis, certain cancers, and eating disorders can all have an effect on dental and oral health. For people with chronic conditions, regular preventive dental care is an important part of whole person health.