What Is a Preventative Dentist?

A preventative dentist focuses on maintaining a patient’s oral health and preventing problems, such as sensitive teeth, from becoming more serious issues, like gum disease. This typically involves routine dental checkups, cleanings, and oral health screenings. By focusing on prevention, patients have a better chance of avoiding the need for more extensive and costly treatments in the future.

The role of a preventative dentist

A preventative dentist is a dental provider who offers dental services designed to prevent oral health issues. (Many preventative dentists also practice as general dentists.) By routinely monitoring oral health, preventative dentists can detect the earliest signs of cavities, gum disease, or tooth enamel wear, among other problems. Then, they can take action to prevent the progression of these problems. 

Regular dental checkups, cleanings, and screenings every six months are the cornerstone of preventative care. A preventative dentist also educates patients on proper oral hygiene practices. Guidance on brushing, flossing, and maintaining a healthy diet helps patients take control of their oral health between appointments.

Who should see a preventative dentist?

Preventative dental care is essential for everyone, regardless of age or oral health status. Parents can bring their children to a general dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts. Children and adolescents benefit significantly from preventative dentistry as it helps establish healthy habits early. Regular visits also help children become comfortable with dental care, reducing fear or anxiety about future appointments.

Adults should continue seeing a preventative dentist to address changes in oral health that occur over time. Routine exams and cleanings every six months remain important in detecting early signs of gum disease, cavities, or other conditions that can worsen without intervention. 

Seniors may need to see a preventative dentist more often, as they can have unique dental concerns such as tooth wear, dry mouth, or gum recession. Consistent care helps address these issues while preserving natural teeth and ensuring the success of restorations like crowns or dentures. Similarly, patients with oral health risk factors — such as smoking, chronic illnesses, or a history of dental problems — may also benefit from more frequent dental visits.

Preventative dentistry services

A preventative and general dentist may use various services to protect teeth, gums, and overall oral health. These services include:

Routine dental cleanings and exams

Regular cleanings and exams form the foundation of preventative dentistry. They allow the dentist to remove plaque and tartar buildup before they cause issues like cavities or gum disease. The dentist will also polish the teeth to keep them looking their best. Lastly, these appointments allow the preventative dentist to check the teeth and gums for signs of decay, infection, or damage.

Dental X-rays

Dental X-rays are a diagnostic tool for detecting issues hiding underneath the gums. These images allow the preventative dentist to identify deep decay, impacted teeth, bone loss, or other hidden problems early, enabling timely intervention.

Oral health screenings

Oral health screenings are another critical component of preventative care. These screenings evaluate the gums, teeth, tongue, and other oral tissues for signs of disease or abnormalities. Early detection of conditions like oral cancer or gum disease significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Schedule your next visit

A preventative dentist strives to reduce the risk of dental problems with routine care, patient education, and early detection. This can be easily accomplished through regular dental visits at least every six months. To schedule your next visit, contact us at (509) 319-2152 today.

Request an appointment here: https://brookemcloningerdds.com or call Brooke M. Cloninger, D.D.S. at (509) 319-2152 for an appointment in our Spokane office.