An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and this applies to your smile, too. Preventative dentistry is the best way to ward off dental issues and keep your smile looking beautiful.
Maintaining good dental health is an important part of maintaining your overall health. This is why James R. Mattingly, DDS DABDSM, offers a number of preventative dentistry services that range from exams to x-rays and more. Contact our Walnut Creek, CA, dental office to learn more and schedule your appointment today.
The Importance Of Prevention
When you properly care for your teeth – brush and floss daily and visit the dentist every six months – you’re able to keep dental problems at bay. The preventative care we offer allows our team to monitor your dental health and treat small problems conservatively before they become big problems. Because your comfort is a top priority for us, we always strive to provide the most conservative care possible, which is why we want to see you regularly for your routine dental care.
Cleanings & Exams
Visiting our office every six months is one of the best ways to maintain your smile. During your routine appointments, we will do a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, checking for signs of decay or infection. Then, we’ll clean your teeth by removing plaque buildup and polishing your pearly whites.Dental X-Rays
Dental x-rays allow us to take a look deep into your teeth to discover any problems that we can’t see with the naked eye. At our office, we use both digital x-rays that send images straight to our computer, as well as panoramic x-rays.- Digital x-rays play a pivotal role in diagnosing various conditions, such as cavities, with precision and efficiency. We use these x-rays to create a detailed plan for treatment and make sure that we are addressing any issues before they become more serious.
- Panoramic x-rays give us a look at the whole mouth structure in one image, which includes teeth, upper and lower jaws, and other surrounding bone structures. We use these x-rays when we’re assessing wisdom teeth or determining if dental implants are a viable treatment option for missing teeth.
Oral Cancer Exams
Our team is trained in performing oral cancer examinations during your routine appointment. The earlier cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat, so these exams are important. Oral cancers include mouth, jaw, and tongue cancer, so we look at all these areas for signs of potential problems. We also provide education on oral cancer, such as risk factors, symptoms, and prevention. Our team is available to answer any questions you have about oral cancer.Fluoride Treatment
We offer fluoride treatments to our patients in order to provide additional protection and strength to teeth. You’ll find fluoride in public water supplies as well as fluoride toothpaste. Sometimes, though, our teeth need some extra help. If you’re prone to tooth decay, our team may recommend an in-office fluoride treatment to lower your chances of developing cavities or other issues caused by tooth decay.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants play a crucial role in safeguarding the vulnerable crevices found on molars. These thin protective coatings are expertly applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, effectively warding off harmful bacteria and preventing tooth decay. While dental sealants are commonly administered to children, we may recommend their application for adults if we determine the patient is prone to decay in these areas.Count On Us For Healthy Smiles
Ensuring your overall health begins with prioritizing your dental well-being. At James R. Mattingly, DDS DABDSM, we are committed to helping our patients maintain optimal health. Achieve a radiant smile by embracing preventative dental care, including thorough exams, meticulous cleanings, and effective sealants. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and let us take care of your oral health needs.