Preventative dentistry is but one branch of dentistry, preventative dentistry as the term implies is aimed at preventing tooth decay, tooth damage and oral disease and to ensure the proper functioning of the chewing process. Preventative dentistry in Cedar Rapids, IA is accomplished through good oral hygiene coupled with ongoing maintenance; there are three levels of preventative dentistry; primary, secondary and tertiary.
By far the most common preventative dental practices are brushing, flossing and the use of mouthwashes and dental rinses. These are examples of primary preventative dentistry. Tooth brushing is a common practice in every culture anywhere in the world; even the most primitive cultures clean their teeth even though they use the frayed end of a twig to do it with rather than a toothbrush. Brushing and flossing are the two actions which eliminate debris left in the oral cavity, reduce the natural build-up of plaque and reduce bacteria levels.
In many progressive communities around the country there is another type of preventative dentistry practiced; fluoridation of the municipal water supply. Fluoridation is the process of adding minuscule amounts of fluoride into the water that is delivered to homes. Studies by the American Dental Association have shown without a doubt the incidence of tooth decay is 40 percent less in municipalities that fluorinate their water supply. Fluoridation has been a common practice since the mid 1940s; it is practiced today in most developed countries.
Regular trips to the dentist for routine examinations and tooth cleaning are all an integral part of preventative dentistry in Cedar Rapids, IA. Regular visits to the dentist to have your teeth professionally cleaned are an effective deterrent to tooth decay. Although regular brushing at home helps in the elimination of plaque, nothing can eliminate plaque as well as a cleaning by a skilled dental hygienist. Plaque is nothing more than a build-up of bacteria and microbes that, if left on the surface of the teeth can quickly cause tooth decay as well as gum disease, both of which, if left untreated can result in the loss of a tooth or teeth.
Secondary preventative dentistry in Cedar Rapids, IA consists of treatments such as fillings, root canals, restoration, dental sealants and the installation of crowns and caps. It may be necessary to remove teeth which are broken off or have become impacted; this is especially true with the wisdom teeth. The removal of wisdom teeth is a common form of secondary preventative dentistry. Tertiary prevention is more dedicated to such things as the repair of broken dentures or bridges.
Preventative dentistry in Cedar Rapids, IA is extremely important if you want to maintain excellent dental health. Regular visits to Adrian Rehak, D.D.S. can catch any potential problems long before they become serious.
