Comprehensive Evaluation / Oral Examination
A thorough evaluation of your teeth and mouth will assess your current oral health and identify any concerns that may need to be addressed.
What Is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry consists of treatments and procedures that maintain the health of your teeth. The goal of preventive dentistry is to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral and dental health problems. Twice yearly dental cleanings and exams are the main preventive dentistry services we offer.
Benefits of Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry offers many benefits:
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- Preserve your natural teeth. Preventive dentistry keeps your natural teeth healthy so that they can stay in place throughout your lifetime.
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- Save time and money. Preventive dentistry can save you time and money by helping you avoid restorative dental procedures.
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- Covered by insurance. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive dentistry, typically at 100% for most services.
- Experience better health. Your oral health is closely tied to your overall health and wellness. A healthy mouth contributes to a healthier person.
Why Choose Meadows Dental Associates of Sarasota
At Meadows Dental Associates of Sarasota, we believe in the connection between oral health and overall health and wellness. We take the whole person into consideration when we treat our patients, which allows us to provide an individualized experience that meets the unique needs of each patient.
Through the use of technology we provide an advanced level of care. Our diagnostic equipment detects potential problems at the earliest stage for the best possible outcome. Technology also helps make your experience as comfortable as possible.
For 10 years running we have maintained our status on the list of the Best Doctors in Sarasota due to our commitment to excellent patient service.
Through the use of technology we provide an advanced level of care. Our diagnostic equipment detects potential problems at the earliest stage for the best possible outcome. Technology also helps make your experience as comfortable as possible.
For 10 years running we have maintained our status on the list of the Best Doctors in Sarasota due to our commitment to excellent patient service.
Procedures Offered
Dental Cleaning
During a dental cleaning plaque is removed from your teeth and they are polished until smooth.
Dental Sealants
A dental sealant may be applied to a tooth that has deep crevices in order to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Flouride Treatment
Fluoride treatments may be applied to your teeth to strengthen the enamel and make the teeth more resistant to decay.
Custom Mouthguards
A mouthguard can protect your teeth from damage while participating in sports and other activities. Custom mouthguards made by your dentist are comfortable and effective.
Custom Night Guards
A night guard protects your teeth and jaw from the effects of teeth grinding. Custom night guards fit comfortably and are compact.
Periodontal Maintenance Program
Home care is an extremely important part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but even excellent home care cannot prevent bacteria and plaque. If the plaque is not removed, it can harden, becoming calculus. We will recommend a periodontal maintenance program that is best for you based on how quickly you develop calculus and your past and current periodontal health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dentistry
How often do I need to go to the dentist?
The recommended schedule for dental visits is every 6 months, which means we should see you twice a year for teeth cleanings and oral examinations. This schedule is ideal for most patients for the prevention of tooth decay and gum disease.
How often should I brush and floss my teeth?
We recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Try to avoid eating after brushing your teeth at night. You should floss your teeth once a day, either in the morning or at night, whichever works best for you.
Are dental sealants like fillings?
A dental sealant is not the same as a filling. A sealant is applied before there is a cavity in order to prevent it. A filling is needed when a tooth has formed a cavity due to decay.
What is the point of a custom mouth guard?
A mouth guard protects your teeth when you are active, such as playing sports or performing physical activities that increase your risk of dental injury. A custom mouth guard is designed to fit your teeth specifically, and the improved fit provides more effective protection that is also more comfortable than a store bought mouth guard.
Do I need a night guard if I grind my teeth?
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can do irreparable damage to your teeth. It wears down and weakens the enamel over time, increasing the risk of cracked teeth. It can also put excess staring on your jaw, resulting in TMJ disorder. A night guard protects your teeth and absorbs the impact of teeth grinding.
Why do I need a dental cleaning if I brush my teeth?
Even if you brush and floss your teeth to the best of your ability, some plaque is going to be left behind. Regular dental cleanings remove plaque from hard to reach places that your dentist is more likely to see.
Are flossers as effective as string floss?
The most effective way to floss is to use string floss because it is easier to wrap around your teeth for thorough cleaning. But flossers are still effective and are better than not flossing at all.
Can I still get preventive dentistry without insurance?
If you don’t have dental insurance, preventive dentistry is very affordable. We offer flexible payment options, including credit cards. You can also use HSA and FSA accounts that accompany your medical insurance.