Preventative Dentistry in Norwood

Also Offering Dental Services for the Greater Norwood area including Westwood, Walpole, Canton, and Dedham MA

Although cavities and gum disease are common, they are nearly avoidable with the right preventative dentistry approach. Preventative dentistry refers to treatments and strategies that keep your mouth healthy and save you from the time and expense of restorative or emergency dental care.

What Preventative Dental Care Entails

At Pediatric and Family Dentistry of Norwood, we strive to lower your risk for developing tooth decay, gum disease and more serious dental problems. Dr. Liakos highly encourages you to see our team regularly for cleanings, exams and X-rays. Professional cleanings take care of the bacteria and plaque that your toothbrush or floss can’t reach. Exams allow us to identify the potential for dental problems or dental problems in their early stages, when they are more easily treated. X-rays provide us with a clear look at what the naked eye can’t see — primarily, the tight spots between your teeth, the inside of your teeth and the area below your gumline.

Depending on what we find during exams and on your X-rays, we may recommend targeted strategies to further reduce your risk of dental problems. For instance, if you have early gum disease, deep cleanings can help us get the issue under control before it advances. Also, professional fluoride treatments or sealants can help reduce your risk of cavities.

Home Hygiene Habits to Prevent Dental Problems

You play an important part in preventing dental health issues. By being diligent about at-home hygiene habits and making good lifestyle choices, you can reduce the likelihood of developing cavities, gum disease and other problems.

Brushing

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Our hygienists would be happy to share tips to perfect your at-home hygiene routine during your next exam. 

Diet

Making smart dietary choices can also help reduce your risk of dental disease. Eat a balanced diet of foods that are high in vitamins and minerals like calcium. Limit your consumption of sugary foods and acidic foods and beverages that can harm your tooth enamel. We also recommend you use caution when chewing on hard foods, seeds and pits that could crack or chip your teeth. 

Avoid Smoking

Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products, as they can increase your risk of oral cancer and other diseases. 

Mouth Guards

If you are active in contact or collision sports, get fitted for a protective mouth guard to lower your risk of a jaw or tooth injury. Mouth guards are also useful at protecting your teeth from premature wear if you grind or clench at night. 

Avoiding Personal Risk Factors

Finally, be aware of any personal factors that can increase the chances of gum disease, cavities and oral cancer. During your dental exams, we will ask you about your medical history and lifestyle to identify these personal risk factors, and we can explain steps to take to manage the risk. For example, if you have diabetes, you are at an increased risk of gum disease. We encourage you to work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar under control to minimize the chances of developing a related oral health condition.

Learn More About Preventative Dentistry

For more information about preventing dental problems before they start, please contact Pediatric and Family Dentistry of Norwood to speak with a member of our team.