Preventive Dentistry - Perkins Dental Clinic

Dental Checkups

We want to help protect your smile from damage caused by tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease and other damaging dental conditions. By visiting our office regularly we are able to detect early signs of damage to your teeth and gums before it becomes more extensive, expensive and painful. At each dental exam, your hygienist and doctor will make recommendations to help keep your smile as healthy as possible.

Oral Cancer Screenings

We care about more than just your smile. At each dental check-up, our doctors will include a complimentary oral cancer screening to identify any changes in the tissues of the mouth, lips and tongue. We want our patients to have peace of mind, knowing that they are getting the best care available.

Cleaning

There is nothing better than the feeling of a fresh smile after a dental cleaning! Dental cleanings are an important part of maintaining a healthy smile. Although brushing and flossing remove some of the bacteria and plaque from your teeth, regular dental cleanings by a dental hygienist are the only way to remove the excess build up, called tartar, and prevent gum disease.Your hygienists will evaluate the health of your teeth and gums and recommend tips and/or treatments that will help you keep your smile healthy.

Perio Therapy

If your gums are red and swollen, or bleed when you brush and floss, you may have a form of periodontal (gum) disease. Your gums are your foundation for a healthy smile. If left untreated, gum disease can eventually lead to damage to the bone that supports your teeth and can cause major problems, including tooth-loss, down the road. Your dental hygienist will help you understand the causes of gum disease and recommend the best treatment options for you. If you have gum disease, a deeper dental cleaning, called Perio Therapy, is necessary in order to bring your smile back to optimal health and prevent further damage. It is especially important to have regular dental cleanings every few months after Perio Therapy to prevent gum disease from progressing.

Dental Guards

One way we can help protect your smile is with a dental guard. Many people grind their teeth, whether they realize it or not. If you notice yourself grinding, or notice signs of grinding, such as flattened, worn-down teeth, a dental guard may be for you. Teeth grinding can lead to a variety of dental problems including sensitivity, fractures and gum problems. Dental guards are also great for athletes who want to take extra precaution on the field or on the court. When you wear a dental guard, your smile will be protected from further damage or harm.

Sealants

We all know brushing is the number one way to prevent cavities. However, it’s not always easy for your toothbrush bristles to reach the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of your teeth.These nooks and crannies are a great place for bacteria to hide and where cavities begin. This is where sealants come in! At your dental check-up, your hygienist may recommend sealants to protect against decay.