Preventive Dentistry Helps Make Your Teeth Last A Lifetime

That alone is enough to ensure that your teeth will outlive you, right? Wrong. You see, while the enamel is tough, it’s also subject to wear and tear. Preventive dentistry is the special branch of dentistry that seeks to prevent certain conditions that may hinder the enamel from having a longer lifespan.

When the enamel is damaged, the softer and more vulnerable part of the tooth is exposed. This is actually the beginning of the end for the enamel. Once this protective coating is broken, nothing can undo it. If not treated early, tooth decay and gum disease will set in, leading to tooth loss. You can’t simply eat the right kinds of foods or take medicine to restore the enamel back to health. You can, however, take necessary precautions to ensure that your enamel is in tip-top condition; thus, preventing breakage. This is the core of preventive dentistry.

Preventive dentistry looks into the factors that lead to enamel loss and tries to prevent them. The best indication of enamel loss or damage is tooth sensitivity. When you experience tingling pain when you consume hot or cold foods and drinks, that’s one sure sign that your enamel has been compromised.

The most dangerous enemy of the enamel is erosion. Understanding what leads to tooth erosion is the key to preventing enamel damage, and this is the main job of preventive dentistry. One cause enamel erosion is acidic drinks. Sometimes, nothing quenches thirst as effectively as cold soft drinks and citrus fruit juices. The problem is, the acid in these drinks eats away at the enamel, making it susceptible to erosion.

Another reason for enamel erosion is the improper use of teeth bleaching agents. Be extra wary of those whitening strips which contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide in large doses. If you want to whiten your teeth, the best thing for you to do is to let your dentist do it. A dentist especially skilled at preventive dentistry will know how to remove the discolouration in your teeth without putting the sensitive enamel at risk.

Preventive dentistry ensures that your teeth are free from chips and fractures which may expose the delicate interior of the tooth to bacteria. Corrective measures like fillings and dental veneers may be implemented to prevent tooth decay.

Most importantly, preventive dentistry provides excellent oral care for patients. Regular dental checkups and treatments combined with good dental hygiene at home help guarantee healthy teeth and gums and prevent costly restorations in the future.

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For more information please visit thedentalpractices.com.au”>Cosmetic Dentist DrummoyneAuthor: Catherine Padley